Cuts can occur whenever a sharp object pierces through the surface of the skin. Some cuts may be minor and only pierce the surface layer of the skin. An example of a minor cut would be a paper cut. Other cuts can be so deep as to reach muscle, bone, or even an organ. These types of cuts can result in serious injury, and possibly death due to blood loss or internal injury.

Guidelines for Preventing Cuts

• Keep sharp objects such as knives, razors, blades from kitchen appliances (such as blender or food processor blades), scissors, nail clippers, food graters, and household items that slice and prepare foods (such as a mandolin), out of reach of children and confused adults.
• Teach children how to use scissors and knives safely.
• Never hand a person a sharp object, such as scissors or a knife, with the blade pointing toward them.
• When preparing food using a knife, use a sturdy cutting board that will not slip.
• Ensure your hands are not wet or oily when using knives. Always cut with the blade facing away from you.
• Keep your fingers away from the knife’s edge while chopping and cutting foods.
• Put knives toward the back of the counter when you step away from the prepping area.
• Do not throw away metal can lids, broken glass, or other sharp items without first carefully wrapping them in a container that will prevent accidental cuts.
• Never push garbage down in a garbage pail with your hands. Teach others to avoid doing the same.