The present invention relates to a distress/safety device for a small watercraft (10). Specifically, the present invention relates to a distress signal that is given when a rider (12) is no longer present on the watercraft (10). The distress signal is provided by a light (44), by an audible signal, or by an electronic transmission to a receiver. The distress/safety device is in the form of a circuit which remains open as long as a key (52) is inserted in the alarm trigger slot (46) on the watercraft (10). The key is attached by lanyard or cable to an individual driver or passenger of the watercraft (10). Should the individual be displaced from the watercraft (10), the lanyard pulls the key (52) free from the kill switch (40) or alarm trigger slot (46) closing the circuit and triggering the alarm. Alternatively, the kill switch (40) is activated when the rider is displaced from the watercraft (10), thus activating the alarm system which is integral with the ignition. The types of distress alarms may be combined so that more than one type is given in response to a fallen rider.