A powerboat is operating in a busy estuary at night. What specific risks increase compared to daytime operation?

A. Radar makes night operation identical to daytime — no additional risks apply

B. Floating hazards (pots, logs, debris) are invisible; swimmers and kayakers are almost impossible to see; speed perception is reduced; other vessels' lights must be correctly interpreted; own navigation lights must be functioning; night vision is destroyed by white light on deck — use red lighting below decks

C. Only fog increases risk at night — clear conditions are equivalent to daytime

D. Night operation is safer — there is less commercial traffic

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