According to Arizona law, which group must wear a PFD while underway on any vessel?

The requirement for children aged 12 years and younger to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) while underway on any vessel is rooted in safety regulations designed to protect younger passengers, who may be less capable of self-rescue in the event of an emergency. By mandating that this age group wears a PFD, Arizona law aims to reduce the risk of drowning and ensure that children have adequate flotation support if they accidentally fall overboard or are involved in a boating incident. This focus on safeguarding younger boaters reflects a nationwide trend in boating legislation emphasizing the importance of youth safety on the water.

Other groups, such as adults, may have different rules regarding PFD usage, often leaving it to individual preference or circumstances rather than imposing a blanket requirement as seen with children. This law highlights the priority of protecting the most vulnerable participants in boating activities.