Recreational boats (rec boats) don't belong on big water IMHO.

I agree, however, it is worth noting that while several people a year die in rec boats, I don't think you can blame the deaths on using an inappropriate kayak. The cause is usually ignorance, followed by lack of ability.

Usually the paddlers were oblivious to the dangers. For example, they launched from a calm, friendly, sheltered shore, got a little too far from land and got blown out to sea. The ability to paddle strongly will get you out of trouble, some minor bracing skill can keep you upright. Arguably, the higher stability of a rec boat makes them safer for a novice once they are caught out.

Novice paddlers don't know what they don't know and as a result they sometimes end up in bad situations. These situations can be made worse if the boat inappropriate. But if someone does not recognize the factors that contribute to large breaking waves, and is unable paddle away when they see obvious danger, an imploding sprayskirt is pretty far down on the list of risks. Chances are, they will capsize long before their skirt fails and then the skirt only makes it harder to get out of the kayak.

When I see someone launching a rec boat on a rough day, I am not worried because I feel their boat is inadequate, but because the kayak may serve as a proxy for the knowledge and skill level of the paddlers. The choice of an inappropriate kayak is a clue that the paddlers may also be ignorant to the potential risks. There are some knowledgable, experienced and skilled paddlers who prefer rec boats, they are probably safe. Any risk is usually due to lack of knowledge not because of insufficient equipment.