3 Awful Nail Gun Accident X-Rays...and Some Safety Tips

Don't get nailed! Despite the jokes that so often seem to accompany media reports of nail-gun accidents, the rising frequency of such injuries is nothing to laugh at: There are some 14,800 incidents a year among nonprofessionals, according to reports. Most injuries are simple, treatable puncture wounds. But gun-driven nails can also cause more serious problems. They're powerful enough to fracture bones, including the ones that surround your very delicate gray matter. For all of This Old House general contractor Tom Silva's safety tips go to thisoldhouse.com

• 1. Unplug It

  

  Removing the gun from its power source is a must when loading or when clearing jams. For all of This Old House general contractor Tom Silva's safety tips go to thisoldhouse.com

• 2. Get The Right Gear

  

  Wear safety glasses. As careful as you are, a nail can still glance off hidden knots and other nails to nail you. For all of This Old House general contractor Tom Silva's safety tips go to thisoldhouse.com

• 3. Avoid Itchy Trigger Finger

  

  Take your finger off the trigger immediately after you've driven in a fastener. And never carry the nail gun with your finger cocked to shoot. For all of This Old House general contractor Tom Silva's safety tips go to thisoldhouse.com