Here are some tips for the proper handling of knives: Keep knives sharp - If you keep your knife sharp, the knife will easily slide through whatever you are cutting. If your knife is dull, you will need to use force to cut - if you slip just a little, the force you are using to slide the knife will make the knife glance off of whatever is in it path and, in most cases, cut whatever is in its path.

Stay alert - Always be aware of what you are doing and what is around you. Don't get careless or become distracted while using a knife. Cut away from yourself - Never pull a knife towards yourself. If you are cutting toward yourself and slip, the knife will come straight for you. If you are cutting away from yourself and slip, the knife will head the other way. Use a cutting board - Never hold food that you are cutting in your hand. Should you slip, or cut with too much force, the knife will cut your hand. A cutting board allows you to cut safely without endangering your hands or fingers

Storing knives - Knives should never be stored loose in drawers. Not only does this cause the knife to loose its sharp edge, but also can be a cutting hazard for anyone reaching into the drawer. Use the correct knife for the job. Never leave knives in the dishwater or in the dishwasher. Wash knives as quickly as possible and store in the proper place. Never try to catch a falling knife. When walking with a knife, you should hold the knife with the side pressed loosely against your thigh. When handing a knife to someone else, hold the flat part of the blade and turn the handle toward the other person. Don't place your guiding hand on the knife blade for extra leverage.