Happy 1st Anniversary Section 8316
Spring is in the air, and we are starting to bring out the boats! It is that time of year to check the batteries and the safety equipment. Engine cut-off switches and Man Overboard (MOB) systems are becoming increasingly popular. Even mandatory in some states like Virginia, Texas, New Jersey, and more. April 1st will be the year anniversary of Section 8316 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021. Congress passed a federal law for boats under 26 feet with an engine capable of static thrusts of 3hp or greater. Not only is this a law but just good common sense.
Kill Switches
Not just safe, but the law
Kill switches prevent your boat from continuing forward in situations where the boat captain is accidentally thrown overboard. A safety lanyard attached to the captain’s physical person is hooked to the kill switch. If the captain is thrown from the helm the safety lanyard detaches from the kill switch causing the engine to shut down immediately. This prevents the boat from continuing to speed away without its captain.
Man Overboard Systems
Boating Safety & Tips for Spring Boating
Man Overboard Systems go even farther and can detect if any passenger is accidentally tossed from the boat. These systems take more effort to set up, but they do more too. Depending upon the brand or system, MOB can cut off the engine and sound an alarm. The captain and passengers wear a small fob attached to a wristband or hooked onto his or her PFD. If the fob senses water, it signals to cut the engine and set off the alarm. MOB systems are hardwired into the helm’s electronic systems. This intelligent safety feature can monitor everyone on the boat—an excellent idea for families.
Boat engine serviced and DE winterized in the Spring. Boat owners check over the battery charge and current safety equipment. Attaching your safety lanyard to your kill switch is wise and the law. Adding a Man Overboard, MOB, System is just another innovative step in getting ready for a safe, fun season.
