In water or ice rescue operations, personnel within how many meters of the water edge must wear PFDs?

• A. 1 meter
• B. 3 meters
• C. 5 meters
• D. 10 meters

Answer: (B)

Staying buoyant quickly near the water edge is essential because slips, immersion, or ice failure can happen in a heartbeat. A personal flotation device provides immediate flotation, keeps your airway above water, and reduces the risk of drowning while you assess the scene, secure lines, or establish a rescue approach.

Within three meters of the edge, the chance of slipping or the edge giving way is high enough that having a PFD on makes a real difference in safety and response time. This distance gives responders a practical margin to react and stay afloat if they unexpectedly enter the water or if momentum carries them toward the edge.

Beyond that distance, the immediate need for flotation protection at the exact edge becomes less critical for daily operations, though PFDs are still important when working near any open water or ice hazards. The three-meter rule emphasizes being protected right at the point of greatest risk, where immersion could occur with little warning.