Following two recent collisions, Salcombe Harbour are reminding powerboat owners that things can happen incredibly quickly on the water.

A momentary loss of control, an unexpected throttle movement or the helm leaving the controls can have serious consequences.

These instances are from vessels coming alongside to berth or already berthed and feature vessels with electronic throttles, some of which can engage drive without a deliberate action/physical button.

They are reminding people of the following important safety precautions from the Royal Yachting Association.

A kill cord should be worn by the helm whenever the engine in running.

It is a coiled red lanyard fitted with a quick release mechanism.

Kill cords contain a quick-release fitting at one end and a clip at the other.

When in use, the quick-release fitting is attached to the console and the clip is attached to the driver.

Your kill cord should always be clipped back onto itself.

It should not be clipped back onto an item of clothing or attached to any other location.

When used correctly, a kill cord will stop a boats engine if the driver becomes dislodged from the helm position.

Proper use of the device can prevent serious incidents and even fatalities.

As an alternative to the traditional red lanyard, wireless kill cords are also available.

This type of kill cord will stop the engine when a personal device on the helm's person, is out of range from a sensor.

Always research and seek advice on the suitability of an alternative kill cord device for your engine before use.

Extra care should be taken when handling the throttles and other people onboard should stay clear of the area.

If nobody is at the helm/console, the engine should be switched off to prevent anybody from moving around the boat and knocking the controls.

Anyone responsible for navigating and controlling a powered vessel should stay in a position where they can keep effective control and a proper lookout while suitably equipped with a lifejacket and kill cord.