What should you do if a boat's throttle sticks open?

If a boat's throttle sticks open, the appropriate response is to shift into neutral to slow the boat. This action helps to reduce the vessel's speed and gain better control over the situation. By placing the throttle in neutral, the engine will no longer provide forward propulsion, allowing the operator to manage the boat's movement more safely and effectively.

In situations where the throttle is stuck, maintaining control is crucial to prevent accidents or collisions. Shifting into neutral can help mitigate the risk while assessing the problem. Other options might not be as effective or safe. For instance, turning off the engine can be risky if it leads to a loss of steering control, and calling for help from nearby boats might not be timely enough to take immediate action. Allowing the boat to run until the throttle frees is also unsafe, as it could result in dangerous speeds or loss of control. Ultimately, shifting into neutral is the best course of action in this scenario to ensure safety.