Which safety device shuts the engine off if the operator is thrown from the proper operating position?

The emergency engine cut-off switch is a crucial safety device designed to enhance the safety of watercraft operations. When activated, this switch immediately shuts off the engine if the operator is thrown from their position, which typically occurs in situations of sudden movement or loss of control. This feature is vital because it helps prevent the boat from continuing to operate unimpeded after the operator has been ejected, reducing the risk of collisions, accidents, or injury to others in the vicinity.

The other options, while important in their own right, do not serve the same purpose. A safety harness is generally used to secure the operator in place, which helps prevent being thrown from the vessel but does not automatically shut off the engine. An automatic throttle adjusts engine speed based on various parameters but does not shut off the engine unless manually controlled. The fuel cut-off valve is responsible for stopping fuel flow to the engine but requires manual intervention and is not directly linked to the physical status of the operator. Thus, the emergency engine cut-off switch stands out as the device specifically designed to enhance safety in the event of an operator being thrown from the boat.