Why You Shouldn't Carve Pumpkins with Kitchen Knives

Now that you've picked the perfect pumpkin, it's time to roll up your sleeves and start carving! The practice of etching faces into pumpkins stems from an ancient tradition meant to ward away evil spirits; nowadays, the popular Halloween activity has become a creative way to add a festive feel to your home.

However, without the proper safety measures in place, pumpkins, with their unwieldy size, tough rinds and slippery "guts", can quickly become a risk for injury when carving. Plus, you may want to think twice before reaching for that kitchen knife. Discover which tool you should be using, and learn our six essential tips to avoid injury.

Check out the slideshow above to learn why the right knife matters and how you stay safe when pumpkin carving this Halloween.

We are showing you how to eat, drink and be scary this Halloween season.
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