Where may the kill switch be attached on a vessel?

The kill switch, also known as a safety lanyard or engine cutoff switch, is an important safety feature on vessels designed to automatically shut off the engine in the event that the operator is thrown from the boat or loses control. When considering where the kill switch may be attached, the primary goal is to ensure that it is securely fastened to the operator in a manner that allows for immediate disconnection should any emergency occur.

Attaching the kill switch to a personal flotation device (PFD), survival vest, or boot serves this purpose effectively. This ensures that the operator has the kill switch linked to their person and is less likely to accidentally disconnect it during operation, while also ensuring that if they are thrown overboard or fall away from the controls, the engine will shut off immediately.

This practice enhances safety by reducing the risk of the vessel running uncontrolled in the water, which can pose significant dangers to other boats, swimmers, and the vessel itself. The other options do not provide the same level of practical safety and connectivity to the operator, making option B the best choice.