46 CFR § 122.508
Wearing of life jackets
April 15, 2021
(a) The master of a vessel shall require passengers to don life jackets when possible hazardous conditions exist, including, but not limited to:
(1) When transiting hazardous bars and inlets;
(2) During severe weather;
(3) In event of flooding, fire, or other events that may possibly call for evacuation; and
(4) When the vessel is being towed, except a non-self-propelled vessel under normal operating conditions.
(b) The master or crew shall assist passengers in obtaining a life jacket and donning it, as necessary.