Beware Propeller Dangers
Understand the danger of propeller strikes
Did you know?
A typical three-blade propeller running at 3,200 rpm can inflict 160 impacts in one second
A typical recreational propeller can travel form head to toe on an average person in less than one tenth of a second. Most propeller accidents can be prevented!
- Be aware of what's going on around you! The captain of the boat is in command and must take responsibility (under federal law) for the safety for people in and around the boat.
- Wear your engine cut-off switch lanyard and your life jacket at all times. If the lanyard is removed from the switch, the engine will shut off.
- Assign a passenger to keep watch around the propeller area of your boat when people are in the water.
- Read and follow all the safety instructions in your boat and define operator's manuals.
- Consider purchasing propeller safety devices for your boat.
A survivor's account
" A series of events led to all three of us being thrown in the water. My husband yelled to warn me the boat was approaching from behind. The propeller slashed my arm, my back, my breast, and continued down to my buttocks and hip, chewing through bone. The next time I saw my husband he was floating dead in the water, his left leg was missing from the knee down, along with his left arm at the shoulder. Our guide had also been struck and killed. For them, the propeller caused death. For me it caused much more. Through great will, I am a functioning human being; but I'm still trying to adjust to a completely different life, and world alone."
"Boat Responsibly!"
Taking a Boating Safety Course is the best way to prepare for a safe and enjoyable time on the water. As a boat owner or operator, you are responsible for your safety and the safety of your passenagers. That's why the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary & U.S. Department of Homeland Security reminds you: "Boat Responsibly."