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The Editors Mailbox

3-Year-Old Saves Dad After Woodworking Accident

Tom McKenna, Managing Editor

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Three-year-old A.J. Hayes was brave and calm enough to call 9-1-1 after his dad, Aaron, cut an artery with a chisel.

Photo: Courtesy kptv, Oregon

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In Keiser, Oregon, a 3-year-old is being hailed as a hero for calling 9-1-1 after his father cut himself with a chisel. Aaron Hayes was working in his shop when he lost control of a chisel and pierced an artery in his wrist. He was fortunate enough that his son, A.J., knew how to dial the emergency number to get help. By the time emergency personnel arrived, Aaron was practically unconscious. He's recovering now, after getting 10 stitches and quite a scare.

Aaron made a fundamental mistake with his chisel: He was cutting toward himself when the tool slipped and stabbed him. I made a similar mistake two years ago, when I was trimming a hair off a tenon. Instead of securing the workpiece in a vise, I was in a rush and decided to hold it with one hand while I chiseled with the other. Murphy (of Law fame) jumped into the picture, and the chisel slipped and sliced my thumb. Fortunately, there was no need for a 9-1-1 call. Just a Band-Aid and a harsh reminder to pay closer attention to what I'm doing and how I'm doing it.

Just remember, you don't need a power tool to get a serious injury in your shop.

By the way, the story comes from KPTV, Oregon. Watch the video to hear A.J.'s call and to see more details of how the accident happened.

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