FES vs Gas Engine – Finding a Thermal?

There is a need for a fuel shut off valve. But it's a pilot problem if the pilot

A) Doesn't do a short engine run of say 30 seconds before leaving gliding distance of the home airport.

B) Chooses to close the fuel valve in flight unless there is a serious need to.

C) Chooses to pass on the opportunities to use and follow checklists.

At some point better design isn't going to save those who can't or won't take steps to protect themselves or who wait until they have run out of time by getting too low.

On Saturday, August 26, 2017 at 9:30:12 AM UTC-4, wrote:
...it's a pilot problem if...
At some point better design isn't going to save those who can't or
won't take steps to protect themselves or who wait until they have run
out of time by getting too low.

The rate of incidents and accidents clearly shows it is not just a pilot problem.
Perhaps better training and respect for the problem could help,
but reality of the pilot population and incident rate says its design problem...