How to Handle Your Knives Safely

A sharp knife is much safer than a dull one,* Stay focused on your task at hand, don't be
because it won't slip as easily from the projectdistracted by others.
you're working on.Also the more practice and use* Use your dominant hand whenever using a
of a knife will give the skills needed for safeknife.
handling. Skills are essential with the use of any* Don't use a knife to cut electrical wires, use the
tools.correct tool for any job.
* Cut away from your body, never towards* Keep your knives sheathed or folded when
yourself.carrying or not in use. Leather sheaths are not
* Should you drop a knife, let it fall, don't try tothe best for storing knives for a long period of
catch it. You can cut yourself.time, as the chemicals used in tanning them are
* When handing a knife to someone, always closecorrosive for certain blade types.
it first, or sheath it, set it on a table with handle* If you should happen to cut yourself, get first
towards the person, or give it handle first, makingaid immediately.
sure the person has a hold on it before letting goKnives are a great tool when used properly. They
of it.can be used for a multitude of projects, in the
* Don't use a knife for prying, it could cause thekitchen, the garage, outdoors when camping,
tip to break.hunting and fishing. Carry a small pocket knife with
* Keep your knives sharp, cleaned and oiled lightly.whenever you go places, except of course to a
They will last far longer and give you bettercourthouse, or on an airplane, you can always
results.pack it with your checked luggage for a trip on a
* Never run with an open knife in your hand, youplane. Due to the complex and changing nature of
could easily trip and cut yourself.knife laws, it is your responsibility to investigate
* Use a sharpening stone to sharpen your knife.and comply with international, federal, state and
Never use a power grinder, it will ruin the edge.local laws relating to the purchase, possession, use
* Be aware of your surroundings, have a welland transport of knives. Consult applicable laws if
lighted work area.ever in doubt.