How to secure a boat lift?

[Uzj100]

We're building a boat dock with a covered slip and lift. Looks like the switch is unsecured and anyone with access to the dock could potentially operate the lift. Its on private property, but I don't like this setup. Also it could be a safety issue with lots of kids around. Anyone know of a keypad or other keyed security modification? Don't really want to have to control things via a breaker or other similar solution.

[TxJole]

I flip the breaker in my dock closet. Seems to be the easiest fix to me.

[SkiTower]

you can always add a keyed or keypad switch in the circuit or a switch inside a circuit panel lockbox.

[TX-Foilhead]

I've seen a few lately with a remote that stays with the keys to the boat, but 99% of what I've seen being on the lake for most all my life is turn it off at the breaker. These days it seems like people are wiring a switch in the closet more often so you don't have to open the breaker box. Someone could still put the boat in the water, but its gonna take a while. There is some occasional pilfering from boats, but I haven't ever heard of someone stealing a boat off of a lift.

[Uzj100]

Thanks all for the input. I think I like the idea of putting the switcch in a lockable box.

[AirTool]

Note that breakers should not be used as switches. I forget if they lose their ability to break or they break early. The latter would be better because the pita would make you put a new one. The former would not be a good thing. I'll try to remember to check on this with my EE source.

You could put one of those keypad locks like they have on the power saw at Home Depot. The dude has to type the code in each time he runs the saw.

[prairiethunder]

"The Dude" works at home depot. Sweet!