Most important among a boat's equipment isn't a transom plug, bilge pump, steering wheel or even the motor. It's the kill switch, and in boats equipped with an elastic cord that activates the switch, the cord should be wrapped around the driver's arm or leg when underway. That way, if the driver is thrown from the boat, the switch will stop the engine, perhaps saving the life of the driver or the lives of other boaters.

DENNIS ANDERSON