Water safety and the importance of kill cords when operating a powerboat

Name: RYA Powerboat Level 2 29th-30th March
Start: 2025-03-29T09:30:00+00:00
End: 2025-03-30T16:30:00+00:00
Location: Dart Marine Academy

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Powerboating offers an exhilarating way to explore the waters, but it also demands a high level of responsibility to ensure safety for yourself, your passengers, and others on the water.

Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the sport, adhering to essential safety practices can make a significant difference. One of the most critical pieces of safety equipment is the kill cord, an often underestimated device that could save your life.

Operating a powerboat safely requires both knowledge and vigilance. Kill cords, lifejackets, and regular safety checks are all essential components of water safety, but nothing beats hands-on training to build confidence and competence on the water. By taking the time to educate yourself, you can enjoy the thrill of powerboating while ensuring the safety of everyone on board.

Looking to improve your boating skills and stay safe on the water? Join Dart Marine Academy in Dartmouth for our comprehensive powerboat courses. With professional guidance and RYA certifications, we’ll ensure you’re ready to captain with confidence. Contact us today to learn more!

What is a kill cord?

A kill cord, also known as a safety lanyard, is a simple but crucial device designed to instantly cut the engine in case the helmsman is thrown overboard or loses control of the boat. Typically, the kill cord is attached to the helmsman’s wrist, leg, or lifejacket and linked to the boat’s ignition.

If the helmsman moves too far from the helm or is ejected from the boat, the cord pulls out of the switch, immediately cutting the engine and stopping the boat from running unchecked.

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Why kill cords matter?

Without a functioning kill cord, a powerboat can become a serious hazard if the operator falls overboard. The boat may continue at speed, leaving the helmsman in the water and potentially circling back in what’s known as the “circle of death”, posing significant risks to anyone in the water. Kill cords prevent this dangerous scenario by stopping the boat instantly.

In addition to safeguarding the helmsman, kill cords also protect passengers, other water users, and the environment. When a powerboat is moving at speed, any uncontrolled motion can result in accidents involving nearby boats, swimmers, or marine wildlife.

How to use a kill cord correctly.

Want to sharpen your powerboating skills and learn more about essential safety practices? Enroll in a powerboat course with Dart Marine Academy in Dartmouth. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your expertise, we offer RYA-certified powerboating courses to enhance your confidence on the water.

It’s not enough to simply have a kill cord on board, knowing how to use it properly is essential:

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Attach it securely.

The kill cord should be fastened to your wrist, leg, or lifejacket, ensuring it won’t come loose accidentally.

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Test it regularly.

Before setting out, test the kill cord to ensure it works. It should stop the engine immediately when pulled.

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Replace if damaged.

Over time, kill cords can wear out, becoming frayed or stretched. Replace it regularly to ensure it functions correctly.

General water safety tips.

In addition to kill cords, there are several other water safety measures that every powerboat operator should follow. By practicing these habits, you significantly reduce the risks associated with powerboating, creating a safer experience for everyone involved.



Wear a lifejacket.

Lifejackets save lives. Everyone on board should wear one, especially when operating at high speeds or in challenging conditions.

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Keep a lookout.

Always remain vigilant for other water users, such as swimmers, kayakers, or other boaters, and follow navigational rules.



Check the weather.

Before heading out, review the weather forecast and be prepared to change plans if conditions become unsafe.



Equip your boat properly.

Ensure your powerboat has the necessary safety equipment on board, including flares, a first aid kit, a VHF radio, and an anchor.

Understanding UK regulations for powerboats.

In the UK, safety regulations for powerboats are enforced by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), and adhering to them is vital. Kill cords are required on all small vessels operating at planing speeds, and it’s recommended that boaters carry sufficient safety gear. Failing to comply with safety regulations not only puts you and others at risk but can result in penalties or restrictions.

New to powerboating or need a refresher on UK regulations? Dart Marine Academy in Dartmouth offers expert-led powerboat courses designed to cover everything from safe navigation to boat handling techniques. Get hands-on experience and build confidence with us.

Important Information.

Please note that all children under the age of 16 must successfully complete the RYA Powerboat Level 1 course before progressing to the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course. This ensures that they have the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to advance safely.

If you are planning on booking a course for a child with Dart Marine Academy and need further help email info@dartmarine.co.uk or call 07488 593249.

RYA Powerboat Level 2: practical introduction to boat handling and safety in powerboats.

RYA Powerboat Level 2 provides the skills and background knowledge needed by the competent powerboat driver and is the basis of the International Certificate of Competence. It aims to teach boat handling and seamanship in powerboats. It focuses on low speed close quarters handling, man overboard recovery, an introduction to driving at planing speed, and collision regulations.

RYA Powerboat Level 2 can be taken at an inland or coastal location. It may be conducted in a variety of boat types, both planing and displacement. The certificate issued will be endorsed to show the type of boat in which the training took place.

RYA Powerboat Level 2

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£295

Experience: no experience. Preceded by RYA Powerboat Level 1.
Age Restriction: the minimum age to take part is 16.
Duration: the course will last approximately 2 days.
Certificate: self-sufficient powerboater in the right conditions, aware of own limitations and those of the craft.

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The RYA Powerboat Level 2 course is excellent for beginners and experienced boaters alike, we really go into things like turning in a confined space, mooring up and the different and best ways of coming alongside, this really helps with confidence and taking the stress out of the activities, you’ll be driving like a pro come the end of the course.

jerry@dartmarine.co.uk

Jerry Harper

RYA Approve Powerboat Instructor, Dart Marine Academy