Do Boats Need Kill Switches?
A kill switch can help prevent a boating fatality. In an emergency an engine cutoff switch automatically shuts down a boat’s engine, reducing the risk of a propeller injury if the boat operator has fallen overboard.
Does your boat have this safety measure?
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What’s a boat kill switch?
A kill switch is also called an engine cutoff switch. It’s a safety device on boats that shuts off the engine if the boat’s driver falls overboard, is incapacitated, or has to leave the helm in case of an emergency.
Is a kill switch connected to the boat’s operator?
An engine cutoff switch is a lanyard that’s usually connected to a boat operator’s wrist, life jacket, or belt and to the boat’s ignition system. It can look sort of like a big, long keyring.
How does the kill switch work?
If the boat’s operator moves too far from the engine, the lanyard will disconnect and act as a kill switch to turn the engine off automatically.
An engine cutoff system can also be wireless, which gives more freedom of movement. It uses wireless technology (like Bluetooth) to establish a link between a small, wearable fob (a wristband or lanyard) and a receiver unit on the boat. If the fob loses the signal due to being overboard or too far away, the hub detects the disconnection and shuts down the engine.
What happens with the kill switch if the boat’s driver is thrown overboard or blacks out?
If a boat’s operator is thrown overboard or loses consciousness, the kill switch will immediately shut off the engine.
How does an engine cutoff system prevent propeller accidents and boat fatalities?
It stops the propeller from rotating, which significantly reduces the risk of propeller strikes, injuries, and deaths. Propeller strikes are a serious risk and can lead to boating fatalities. Stopping the boat’s engine allows the boat’s operator to get back on board more easily without having to catch up to a moving boat.
Is a kill switch mandatory in Canada?
A kill switch is not mandatory on boats in Canada. Transport Canada was studying and consulting on the possibility of requiring engine cut-off switches on certain recreational boats.
In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard requires kill switches on recreational vessels under 26 feet (8 metres) in length.
In Canada, personal watercraft (PWCs), also called jet skis or water scooters, are required to have engine cutoff switches.
If you are getting a kill switch for your boat, consider having it professionally installed to ensure it properly works to keep you and your crew safe.
Are there other kinds of engine cutoff systems?
An alternative choice is a wireless person-overboard alarm system, which is more suited to larger boats with a crew.
For smaller boats enjoying a day on the water, a lanyard kill switch is solid choice for safe boating.
To sum up: If the boat’s operator is ejected, a kill switch prevents the boat from continuing to run and potentially harm the operator, other people, or marine vessels. An engine cutoff switch can also prevent propeller strikes, which can be deadly.
Should I get boat insurance?
Your boat is a significant investment. Boat insurance is not required in Canada, but if your boat is financed your lender may require boat insurance. Many marinas require boat insurance with $3 million in liability coverage.
Boat insurance protects you and your loved ones in the case of a boating accident or injury. It protects your boat and its motor, boating equipment, and boating accessories like lifejackets, GPS, depth sounders, and many other items.
Can you afford the risk of not having boat insurance?
5 FAQs about kill switches and boats
How much does a lanyard kill switch cost?
The cost is between $10 to $40. Many are less than $30.
What size of boat needs a kill switch?
They’re usually recommended for boats less than 26 feet (8 metres) but they’re also for larger boats, too.
Can a kill switch also prevent boat theft?
A kill switch can be used remotely to shut off the boat’s engine, making it impossible for thieves to start the boat. It’s not foolproof and should be used with anti-theft measures.
Will a boat start if the kill switch is off?
No, a boat will not start or run if the kill switch is off.
What happens if you leave the boat’s kill switch on?
If you try to start the engine while keeping the kill switch on, it can damage the engine.
How long does a boat kill switch last?
It can vary, but a kill switch is typically designed to last the life of the boat if properly maintained.
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