What is the purpose of a "kill switch" on a boat?

A "kill switch" serves a critical safety function on a boat by shutting off the engine if the operator falls overboard. This mechanism helps prevent the boat from continuing to operate unmanned, which can lead to dangerous situations such as the vessel circling back and potentially causing injury or damage. The kill switch is typically connected to a lanyard that the operator wears, ensuring that if they are thrown from the boat, the lanyard pulls the kill switch, immediately stopping the engine. This safety feature greatly enhances the overall security of boating activities, particularly in situations where the operator may lose control or fall into the water.