Saved By The Switch

Emergency Engine Cut-Off Devices

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SAFETY SHOULD ALWAYS BE PRIORITY number one and the presence of a reliable kill switch is an essential facet in providing a safe platform. In its most basic form, a tethered lanyard shuts down the engine in the event a helmsman falls overboard while underway. However, manufacturers now offer a variety of modern devices that take kill switch capabilities a few steps further.

While it’s common knowledge that life vests and signaling instruments are essential safety devices required by the United States Coast Guard, most boaters don’t put a lot of thought into their outboard engine kill switch. But it is time for boaters to update their perceptions of the dated kill switch, as today’s options offered by a variety of trusted brands are advanced pieces of technology that increase chances of survival in dangerous situations that stem from falling overboard.

Though it’s an essential safety feature, the kill switch remains largely unused by most all boaters. The traditional red lanyard features an attachment point somewhere on the helm and a clip that’s easily fastened to the vessel operator. However, if the person at the helm moves too far from the wheel while attached to the kill switch, unwanted engine shut-off can occur. Most boaters never use a kill switch, but if the situation arises where you’re on the water alone, it’s idiotic not to wear one.