LNTM - 23/04/24

Following a near fatal incident in Plymouth at the end of 2023, Cowes Harbour Commission felt it timely to take the opportunity, before the season gets underway, to remind all users of powered watercraft of the importance of wearing the kill cord.

The following video is shared with permission from the Harbour Master of Cattewater, but please be warned, it is not for the feint hearted and contains some graphic images.

The following is extracted from MAIB Safety Bulletin 1/2013:

“The kill cord serves only one purpose, to stop the engine when the driver moves away from the controls. To ensure that this tragic accident is not repeated it is essential that all owners and operators of vessels fitted with kill cords:

• Test them regularly to ensure that the engine stops when the kill cord mechanism is operated.
• Make sure that the cord is in good condition.
• Always attach the cord securely to the driver, ideally before the engine is started, but certainly before the boat is put in gear.
• Stop the engine before transferring the kill cord to another driver.”

Further information regarding the use of kill cords can be found at:

https://www.rya.org.uk/water-safety/kill-cord

This local notice to mariners will remain in force until further notice.