Jeff wrote:

It should be noted that only a small number of accidents actually get
reported, though almost all fatalities are included. However,
fatalities not directly related to boating, such as while swimming from
a moored boat, are not included. While I would love to be able to show
that powerboats are more dangerous than sailboats, the real evidence is
that most deaths are drowning, and 90% of those were not wearing PFDs;
and 70% of fatalities occurred where the operator had received no
training. One the other hand, lack of rules knowledge, lack of lookout,
mechanical failure, etc. were pretty low on the list - general stupidity
(recklessness, inattention, inexperience, excessive speed, alcohol) was
pretty high.

Up here it's usually the fishermen with their smaller outboard open
boats.. or young people overloading boats heading to parties on quiet
islands. Almost always, no PFD worn. Although we are surrounded by salt
water with over 4000 km of coastline, most deaths occur on lakes.
note... in majority of cases...no PFD worn.