Boat Battery and Engine Cut-Off Switch (ECOS)

Boat Battery

It is unlawful to operate a motorized vessel equipped with a stored battery unless the battery is secured against shifting. The battery must be equipped with non-conductive terminal shields to prevent accidental shorting.

Engine Cut-Off Switch (ECOS)

If a motorized vessel, including a PWC or specialty prop-craft, is less than 26 feet in length and equipped with an engine cut-off switch (ECOS), it is unlawful to operate that vessel on plane or above displacement speed without first verifying that the ECOS is functional and properly attached.

• With a lanyard-type ECOS, the lanyard must be attached to the person, clothing, or PFD of the operator.
• With a wireless cut-off device, the wireless system must be activated.
• Exceptions to this requirement are when:
  • The vessel's main helm is contained within an enclosed cabin or...
  • The vessel does not have an ECOS.