Emergency Kill Switch with Lanyard (QuickStop) 12V, 10A – Boat Safety Cut-Off Switch

The QuickStop emergency kill switch is a critical safety component for operating a motorboat or jet ski. It’s a cut-off switch connected via a coiled lanyard to the operator of the vessel. If the operator accidentally falls overboard or moves too far from the helm, the switch automatically kills the engine’s ignition, stopping the boat and preventing the dangerous scenario of it continuing under power without anyone in control.

Design and components:

• Coiled lanyard: The included coiled lanyard is flexible and stretchable, with a bright color (usually red or orange) for high visibility. One end attaches to the driver’s clothing or life jacket, and the other end has a special plastic clip/key. The cord is short enough to pull the switch if the operator goes more than a meter or two from the helm, yet long enough not to impede normal movement while operating the boat.
• Clip/Key: The plastic clip (often red) fits into the kill switch on the console. While the clip is inserted, the circuit is complete and the engine can run. If the clip is pulled out (when the operator falls and the lanyard tugs), it pops out of the switch.
• Switch (button): The switch itself is mounted on the dashboard or near the helm/throttle control. It’s made of impact-resistant plastic and internally sealed to be waterproof (against splashes and rain). It has two terminals for wiring: one goes to the engine’s ignition kill circuit, the other typically to ground (or in some systems it interrupts the ignition feed). The 10A rating covers most ignition circuits of small to medium engines.

Operation and compatibility: This QuickStop kill switch works with most outboard engines (Yamaha, Mercury, Honda, Suzuki, Tohatsu, etc.) as well as many jet skis (PWCs) that have a similar lanyard system. For magneto-based ignitions (typical of most outboards), the switch grounds out the ignition to stop the engine. For others, it cuts the 12V feed to the coil. In both cases, installation is straightforward: connect the two terminals according to your engine manufacturer’s diagram (usually one to the engine’s kill wire, the other to ground or to interrupt the circuit).

Why this product is important:

• Safety first: If the operator goes overboard, a boat without a kill switch can continue moving in circles or straight ahead, posing a risk of injury to the person in the water or others nearby. The QuickStop switch eliminates this danger by shutting off the engine immediately.
• Legal requirement: In many countries and jurisdictions, having and using a kill switch (also called an “engine safety lanyard”) is mandatory for small powerboats. This device helps you comply with those regulations and avoid fines, while also ensuring your safety.
• Easy to use: Before starting the engine, simply clip the lanyard’s key onto the switch and attach the other end to yourself. In practice this takes seconds, but the habit of using it can save lives.
• Universal design: The kit includes a universal clip that fits the included switch (and often other similar kill switches). If you have multiple boats or PWCs, you can use the same lanyard on all, as long as the switches are the standard type. Also, if you already have a built-in kill switch, our coiled lanyard can serve as a spare or replacement for it.

Installation: Requires drilling a small hole (typically ~13 mm 1/2") at the desired location for the button, then securing the switch with the provided nut from behind. Wiring involves two connections (a diagram is included). Ensure the wiring connections are solid and protected. Arrange the coiled cord so it doesn’t tangle with controls but also isn’t taut during normal operation.

By equipping your boat with this emergency kill switch, you’re adding a critical layer of safety. Hopefully it never needs to activate due to an accident, but if it does – you’ll be glad your vessel is prepared with it. This is a small accessory that has the potential to prevent very big problems on the water.