A powerboat is towing a water skier. What are the key safety rules?

A. A lifejacket is only required if the skier cannot swim

B. Water skiing is permitted in any area as long as no other vessels are visible

C. The driver alone can supervise the skier by watching in the mirror

D. Minimum two persons on the tow boat (driver + observer watching the skier at all times); skier wears a lifejacket; tow rope clear of propeller; operate only in a designated area clear of other vessels/swimmers; kill cord worn; be aware that a fallen skier is invisible from other vessels

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