Engine Cut-Off Devices Save Lives. Get Connected!

By DAN Boater

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Automatic Engine Cut-Off Devices Are Critical To Safe Boating

DAN Boater has joined forces with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) to remind boaters to "Get Connected" and use their automatic "kill switch", or engine cut-off device, every time they go boating.

An engine cut-off device is a proven safety device used to stop the boat's engine immediately should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard when the boat hits a wave, wake, takes a sharp turn, runs into a submerged object, suffers steering failure, and more.

Fast Facts on Propeller and Vessel Strikes

• In 2017, there were 172 accidents in which at least one person was struck by a propeller. Together, these accidents resulted in 162 injuries and 31 deaths. (Source: US Coast Guard 2017 Recreational Boating Safety Statistics)
• Also in 2017, there 307 accidents in which at least one person was struck by a vessel. Collectively, these accidents resulted in 403 injuries and 38 deaths.
• Most propeller injuries and fatalities involve open motorboats 16-25 feet in length.
• Operator inattention, inexperience, and carelessness are the primary causes of most propeller incidents.
• In cases where the boat operator is thrown overboard, the wheel is often turned. This causes the unmanned boat to turn in a circle, placing those in the water at risk of being hit by the boat and propeller.

There are multiple engine cut-off devices available on the market today ranging from simple lanyards to wireless models. Some are designed to kill the engine when passengers fall overboard. Most boat manufacturers will install the systems and provide the devices.

Engine cut-off devices take only seconds to attach and stop propellers instantly. And accident reports show that these devices do prevent injuries and death from propeller and vessel strikes.

"We know this has the potential to prevent propeller strike casualties," said NSBC Executive Director Peg Phillips. "Our goal is to make use of the engine cut-off device a subconscious safety habit."

Help us spread the word and save lives. Visit GetConnectedBoating.org to find out how you and your boating club can get involved and make a difference.