Which equipment is required while operating a personal watercraft?

When operating a personal watercraft (PWC), having a functioning lanyard cut-off switch is a crucial safety requirement. The lanyard cut-off switch is designed to stop the engine if the operator falls off or is thrown from the watercraft. This feature helps prevent the PWC from continuing to operate uncontrollably, which could pose a serious danger to the rider, others on the water, and any nearby objects or vessels.

The other options, while important in various boating scenarios, are not mandatory for operation of a personal watercraft specifically. A fire extinguisher is generally required on larger vessels or certain types of boats, while a two-way radio may be useful for communication but is not a legal requirement for PWCs. Similarly, a spare fuel container can be helpful for longer trips but is not considered essential equipment for safely operating a personal watercraft. Thus, the lanyard cut-off switch stands out as a necessary safety feature specifically tailored for the operation of PWCs.