What should you do when passengers are boarding or disembarking from a boat?

Turning off the engine when passengers are boarding or disembarking from a boat is considered the safest practice. This action minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries, as a running engine can lead to propeller movement, which poses a significant danger to individuals getting on or off the boat.

By ensuring the engine is off, you create a safer environment for everyone involved. It eliminates the potential for someone to accidentally come into contact with the propeller, which can cause serious harm, or for the boat to inadvertently move while people are onboard or attempting to board.

Keeping the engine running or increasing the throttle, on the other hand, can create hazardous conditions. A running engine or higher throttle means the boat could move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, allowing passengers to board while the engine is in gear exposes them to potential accidents, particularly if they lose their balance or are caught off guard by the movement of the boat. Thus, turning off the engine is crucial for passenger safety during these times.