Cub Scout Pocket Knife Safety

The pocket knife is an important tool for any Cub Scout. Its multifunction capability makes it useful for many Scouting activities. Before putting a pocket knife to use, however, a Scout should learn how to use it safely.

The Basics

First, do not treat the knife as a toy, because it will never be one. Never carry an open knife in your hand.

Make a safety circle by holding a closed pocket knife in your hand and extending your arm out in front of you with the closed knife. Turn in a complete circle and make sure that you do not touch anything or anyone within this circle. Be sure to check overhead clearance as well.

To open the knife, hold it in one hand and put the thumbnail of the other hand into the slot containing the blade. Pull out the blade while pushing against the hinge with the hand holding the handle. The blade will snap into an open position.

When you are done using the knife, close the blade with your palm against the back of the blade and put it away.

Using the Knife

When using the knife, always cut away from your body. Do not try to make big shavings or chips, and never use the knife to shave bark from a tree. When you make cuts, always cut at a slant.

To pass the knife to someone else, the person handing off should hold the knife by the blade and place the handle into the receiver's hand.

Caring For Your Knife

Keep the blade clean and dry. Always clean the blade after each use. You should know how to sharpen the knife properly; a dull blade has a better chance of slipping and cutting you than a sharp blade. Keep the blade off the ground and do not try to cut things that will dull or break the blade.

References

• Knife Safety