3 Safe Knife Handling Practices To Be Aware Of

Incorrectly handling a knife can lead to significant injuries. Safe handling practices will keep you and others around you safe while working on a task with your knife. Use these three safe knife handling practices at home or on the job to ensure your safety.

Ensure Your Knife Is Sharp

A dull knife is a dangerous knife. You have to apply more pressure for it to cut through something, which leaves room for slippage and injuries. Ensuring your knife is sharp is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep yourself safe while handling a knife. A knife sharpener or a sharpening stone are effective tools that will easily sharpen your blade, and a honing steel is great for touch-ups between sharpening.

Store Your Knives Properly

Organized and designated storage encourages routines that help you safely handle knives. Keep your knives stored out of the way when you’re not using them. Understand that putting them in a drawer is not safe or proper storage. You could reach into the drawer, thinking you’re grabbing the handle, and accidentally grasp the blade.

Use a knife sheath to protect the blade from damage during storage. You could also invest in a knife block for safekeeping. Proper storage also increases the longevity of your knives.

Avoid Distractions While Handling the Knife

Always, always, always give your full attention when cutting, slicing, trimming, and handling a knife! If someone needs to talk to you or you experience an interruption, stop what you’re doing and safely put down the knife. Never use your knife while looking away. This mistake could cost you a fingertip or worse.

Deal with the distraction, and get back to work. You’ll produce your best work when you focus on the task. At work, let your coworkers know how to approach you appropriately. At home, tell your family not to interrupt you unless there is an emergency or something urgent.

Failing to follow knife safety can result in serious injury. Follow the above safe knife handling practices to prevent injuries. Your fingers and other limbs will thank you. Before allowing anyone to handle the knife, ensure they also understand safe handling.

If you’re an outdoorsy person, you should invest in a quality knife. The Knife Connection has an incredible selection of durable, high-quality knives, including LT Wright handcrafted knives. These high-end knives will last for decades with proper handling and care.