1. Knife Skills Unit – Best Practices

2.  Always use sharp knives. Dull blades cause more accidents because they are harder to work with and require more pressure.

3.  Concentrate on what you are doing when using a knife.

4.  Never play with knives!

5.  Always use a cutting board

6.  Keep knives away from the edge of the counter to lessen the chance of being knocked on the floor or on someone's foot.

7.  Step out of the way if a knife is dropped. Don't try to catch it.

8.  Use a knife for its intended purpose. Do not use it as a substitute for a can opener, screw driver, staple remover, or box opener.

9.  Choose a knife that is the correct size and has the proper blade for the job to be done.

10.  Carry a knife by the handle with the tip pointed down and the blade turned away from the body.

11.  Keep knife handles free of grease or other slippery substances.

12.  Repair or throw away knives with loose handles.