Why must the kill cord (engine cut-off lanyard) always be worn while driving a powerboat?

A. The kill cord is only required when travelling above 15 knots

B. If the driver is thrown from the helm, the cord pulls the kill switch stopping the engine — preventing the vessel continuing at speed unmanned (a "circle of death" where an uncontrolled powerboat circles at full throttle striking the crew in the water)

C. The kill cord prevents fuel surging at high speed

D. Kill cords are advisory only — they are not required by law for leisure powerboats

A. Check fuel and kill cord only — all other checks are annual service items

B. Fuel (level, no leaks, correct mix if 2-stroke); oil (4-stroke: check dipstick); engine mounting bolts tight; kill cord condition and function; propeller (no damage, cotter pin present); safety equipment (lifejackets, flares, VHF, bailer, paddle); kill cord attached before starting

C. Run the engine in the water for 10 minutes before departure — no pre-launch checks needed

D. Only check fuel level — outboard engines are self-maintaining

A. Powerboats stop within 2 boat lengths at any speed — no forward planning required

B. At 25 knots a powerboat covers ~13 metres per second — stopping distance can exceed 50-100m depending on sea state and engine response. Reaction time of 1 second adds ~13m. At high speed, hazards must be identified and acted on much earlier than at displacement speeds

C. Speed only affects stopping distance in calm water — waves have no effect on deceleration

D. Engine power means powerboats can reverse to stop instantly — stopping distance is negligible