Which safety equipment is used to keep a person afloat in water?

The life jacket is specifically designed to keep a person afloat in water, providing buoyancy and increasing safety during activities such as boating or swimming. This personal flotation device is equipped with materials that are lighter than water, which helps counteract a person’s weight when they are in the water, enabling them to remain upright and afloat, even if they are unconscious or unable to swim.

In contrast, helmets are intended for head protection in activities like cycling or sports but do not relate to flotation. Dry bags are used to keep gear dry and are not designed to provide buoyancy in water. Leashes may be used for securing items or during surfing to keep a board attached to the surfer but do not serve any purpose in assisting a person to remain above water. Therefore, among the choices provided, a life jacket is the only equipment that directly aids in keeping a person safe and afloat in aquatic environments.