When is the risk of propeller strike highest and what procedures prevent it?

A. Propeller strikes are only a risk when the vessel is at full speed

B. The propeller only rotates above 2,000 RPM — it is safe to approach at tick-over

C. Highest risk: when recovering a person from the water (MOB recovery); when berthing; when crew are in the water near the vessel; when motoring slowly in crowded anchorages. Prevention: engine off or in neutral before anyone is near the propeller arc; kill cord attached; communication with crew before any throttle movement

D. Propeller strikes only occur with outboard engines — sterndrive and shaft-drive installations are safe

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