Knife Safety in the Kitchen

One of the most overlooked factors in knife safety is the actual quality of the blade itself. A quality knife can be expensive, but consider that it will last for decades where as a cheaper knife will need to be replaced in a much shorter period of time, often within a year if used frequently. Look for carbon or stainless steel edged knives for the best durability.

It's also a good idea to invest in a sharpening tool, a honing block would can help keep your knives sharp or a small grinding wheel. The reason for this is that a dull knife can be much more dangerous then a sharpened knife. For example a dull knife might slip or slide when you struggle to cut something. That's not something you want to happen when your fingers are just inches away. Remember that the vast majority of all accidents that occur in the kitchen are related to the use of knives.

When using a knife in the kitchen always use a cutting board and ensure it's secure by putting a towel underneath so that it doesn't slide around the counter. Always put whatever you are cutting firmly on the cutting board and never hold it in your hand.

When cutting with the blade of the knife, make sure you are cutting away from your body. Cutting towards your body is dangerous if there is any kind of slipping. Also remember that your knife is not a can opener or screw driver. Don't try to open cans or bottles with a knife.

Make sure that when cutting with a knife that you are using the right knife for the job. It may be tempting to grab that massive 9 inch serrated blade when you are cutting that tomato, but that's a job better handled by a small paring knife or slicing knife. Use a chef's knife for your chopping and so on.

If you are carrying a knife in the kitchen and happen to drop it, let it fall to the ground. Never, ever try to catch a falling knife.Always wait for the knife to fall to the ground and stop moving before picking it p. The natural reflex is to try and catch something when you drop it, keep focused when using the knife and you can help avoid this reaction from happening.

A final thought about knife safety. While most kitchen accidents occur with knives, they don't always happen when the knife is actually being used. Properly storing your knives is something that is often over looked. It's best to store your knives in a rack if available but if your like most of us that' might not be an option due to space or other reasons. Most people store their knives in a drawer, so make sure you have a separate compartment away from other kitchen utensils. Also make sure all your knifes are pointing towards the back of the drawer with the handle pointing towards you. Never store knives with other objects or loose materials. When you wash your knives never put them into a sink with soapy water water, always hold the knife and wash it first if you use a sink instead of a dishwasher.

By using these simple tips you can avoid the most common dangers in the kitchen, the accidental knife injury, and stay clear of that trip to the emergency room.