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07/04/2025
Prevention | Maintenance & Technology
Kill Cords: A Non-Negotiable in Powerboat Safety
In the boating world, most skippers understand the purpose of a kill cord. Yet, even among the most experienced, routine use can still be overlooked - especially on short trips, calm days or when manoeuvring in familiar waters.
At Pantaenius UK, we’re all about supporting confident, capable boaters. But confidence should never come at the expense of safety. Kill cords may be simple devices, but their importance is anything but.
We All Know the Risks - So Why the Laxity?
It’s not a lack of knowledge. The risks of not using a kill cord are well documented: runaway boats, circling RIBs and the tragic consequences that can follow. We all get it - accidentally killing the engine while docking is frustrating. But that inconvenience is nothing compared to what can happen when a boat goes unmanned at speed. If you're tempted to bypass it “just this once,” it’s worth asking: would you skip your life jacket?
Despite high levels of awareness, kill cord compliance remains inconsistent - particularly in sectors like superyacht tenders, where style and performance can sometimes overshadow safety basics. As flagged by recent MAIB reports and industry commentary, the failure to wear a kill cord isn’t always about ignorance, it’s often complacency, poor habit, or perceived inconvenience.
Best Practice Reminders
Even for those who know better, it pays to revisit the basics:
- Check it, wear it, test it - every time you get behind the helm. British Rowing and other marine bodies recommend pulling the cord at the start of each session to ensure it shuts down the engine as expected.
- Short trips still matter - complacency creeps in during the routine.
- Swapping helms? Kill the engine first.
- Keep a spare—a lost, or damaged lanyard shouldn’t mean losing control.
- Don’t extend the cord beyond the manufacturer’s recommendation; responsiveness matters in an emergency.
- Do not loop the cord around your wrist as it may slip off. A complete turnaround your leg or clipped to the harness on your lifejacket is much safer.
For those using wireless kill cords: make sure your system is fully charged, tested regularly, and has a backup option if connectivity fails.
From the Insurance Perspective
At Pantaenius UK, we see safety measures like kill cords as vital, everyday tools that help prevent avoidable incidents on the water.
Proper kill cord use plays a key role in reducing harm, protecting passengers and avoiding more serious outcomes. Encouraging responsible boating is one of the ways we support a strong confident boating community.
Could Kill Cords Evolve?
While the coiled red lanyard remains a tried-and-tested solution, calls for innovation are growing. From pressure-sensitive helm switches to GPS proximity-based shutoffs, the industry is exploring new ideas to improve safety without sacrificing usability. But until those alternatives are universally reliable and available, the traditional kill cord remains your first - and most effective - line of defence.
The RYA, CHIRP and other industry groups continue to campaign for education and accountability. It’s a collective effort to keep kill cord use front-of-mind in every corner of the marine world.
There are NO Excuses
You wouldn’t head out with expired flares or worn lifejackets. Treat your kill cord with the same level of importance. Use it every time, regardless of weather, distance or experience. Boating safety isn’t just about what you know - it’s about what you do.
Small actions, like using your kill cord, can make a big difference.
Stay safe. Use your kill cord.