-
Sale
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Emergency Boat Kill Switches and Lanyards
Emergency Boat Kill Switches and Lanyards: Purpose, Function, and Legal Requirements
Emergency boat kill switches and lanyards are vital safety devices designed to instantly stop a boat's engine if the operator is unexpectedly separated from the helm. Their use is mandated by federal law for most recreational vessels in the United States.
Purpose and Functio: The primary purpose of an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and its associated lanyard is to prevent a runaway boat, which poses a significant danger of propeller strike injuries to the operator or other people or objects in the water. Legal Requirements: Since April 1, 2021, a U.S. federal law requires the use of engine cut-off devices on "covered recreational vessels" operating on U.S. navigable waterways.
The law applies to:
- Motorized boats are less than 26 feet in length.
- Vessels with engines produce 3 horsepower or more.
Exceptions to the wear requirement include low-speed activities like fishing or docking, or if the main helm is in an enclosed cabin.