I've worn PFDs when whitewater rafting, etc., but my life on boats has been without one on... like 99.9% of the time ... no one else did/does either ... it's like a PPI
Actually ... other than kids ... never.
My Lab can swim just fine too .... LOL
Whitewater River-Dawgs wear 'em ... I picked one up for a ride in a rubber Funyak once ... lower Nolichucky after the rapids ... hoot
!
edited: RIP to the dad ... easy to armchair.
He did what every dad I know would do under the circumstances...
Live & Learn too...