Unfortunately, year after year, boaters are injured as a result of propeller strikes. As a captain, I was lucky enough to never witness this type of accident. However, when people are hit with a moving propeller, the outcome is never positive. Importantly, preventative measures can be taken to avoid accidental propeller injuries. So, what piece of equipment on a boat is most important in preventing propeller strike injuries? What you need to know. 

How Do Propeller Strikes Most Often Occur

Unfortunately, every year, boaters are struck by propellers accidentally. For the most part, injuries caused by the prop can be avoided by following safety measures. Here is how most injuries occur as a result of boat propellers. 

Entering Or Exiting The Water While The Motor Is Running

The majority of propeller injuries occur while passengers are entering or getting out of the water. 

For the most part, the swim ladder is within feet of the prop. With that said, a boat motor left running is at higher risk of injuring a swimmer compared to a boat motor that is shut off. 

Importantly, boaters are left with a false sense of security, keeping the vessel neutral. People passing by the helm or objects falling on the throttles can cause the boat to shift into gear. For this reason, I recommend killing the engine or engines while people are getting in or out of the water. 

Sitting On The Transom Of A Boat While It Is Underway

Recreational cruising vessels are constructed with plenty of comfortable seating options. Utilize the seats that are available in the bow, helm, or aft of the helm. However, never sit on the top of the transom. 

Transom ledges are not designed for people to sit, especially while the boat is underway. The percentages are high, and people can fall off the back and into the water near the propeller. Often, a large wave or sudden acceleration is the culprit when it comes to going overboard from the transom. 

I recommend sitting flat in a seat and never along the transom to prevent falling in and coming in contact with the propeller. 

Engaging In Water Sport Activities

One of the most exciting activities while boating is engaging in water sports. No matter if you’re into tubing, waterskiing, skurfing, wakeboarding, or any other form of entertainment, you’re at risk of a propeller injury. 

Secondly, don’t come close to the boat when preparing to be towed. Instead, stay as far back as the tow line will fully extend. 

Without a doubt, never approach a boat if you fall while engaging in watersports. Instead, allow the vessel to approach you and inform you when it is safe to board the ladder. 

Falling Overboard As The Operator Of The Boat

One of the scariest situations is falling overboard as the operator of the vessel. This is especially the case if you’re alone. 

Unfortunately, solo boaters do go overboard as a result of slips, loss of balance, or medical emergencies. I used to boat solo on a regular basis out on the open ocean fishing. My best piece of advice would be to remain centered at the helm with a firm grasp on the wheel. 

Know The Best Preventative Measure To Avoid Propeller Strikes

Undoubtedly, the best way to prevent being struck by a propeller is to wear a boat motor kill switch lanyard. 

The lanyard clips to the operator and, when pulled, shuts the engine down to stop the rotation of the propeller. 

Avoiding A Propeller Strike As A Solo Boater

As a solo boater, it is critical to avoid forgetting to connect the lanyard. Failing to do so can result in a propeller strike if you go overboard. Secondly, you can say goodbye to your boat as it drives off in the distance. 

Avoiding A Propeller Strike With Passengers

The lanyard is equally as critical to keeping passengers safe. In the event that someone falls overboard while the boat is underway, the fastest way to react could be by pulling the lanyard to kill the motor. Conversely, the throttle can be shifted to neutral, but there is room for error. Rather than moving it to the neutral position, it can be pushed forward to drive or pulled back for reverse. This is not uncommon when encountering a stressful situation. 

Prevent Boat Propeller Injuries

Now you know what piece of equipment on a boat is most important in preventing propeller strike injuries. Boat propeller injuries can occur in a matter of seconds. However, take preventative measures to avoid the unthinkable from occurring. Remain mindful when people are exiting or entering the boat. During this time, it is imperative to shut off the motor. Secondly, as the operator, wear a kill switch lanyard to cut off the motor instantly.