For Immediate Release

NORTH BRANFORD, CT, May 30, 2000 - Many storage options exist for kitchen cutlery. Often people make their decisions based on kitchen layout and aesthetics, but it is essential to consider safety issues as well, according to experts at Professional Cutlery Direct® (PCD®), www.cutlery.com, which has recently launched a comprehensive Safe Knife Handling Campaign.

"When a household contains pets or small children, a standard knife block may not be as safe as it looks," said Terri Alpert, CEO and founder of PCD. "It's important to think about safety when choosing storage options for knives. An ounce of preparation, in this case, may save a finger."

The following knife storage options are listed with brief descriptions, safety tips, and some product suggestions from PCD:

• Slanted Knife Block: Perhaps the most common storage solution, slanted knife blocks are seen in many kitchens. Look for one that is well-constructed and has a heavy base, stands securely, and presents little danger of toppling over even when fully loaded with knives. Knives are placed in the block at an angle to allow for more comfortable removal. However, this easy and comfortable access can make them attractive to an enterprising toddler who may climb to the counter. Available from PCD: Striking Stainless Slanted Knife Block - $159.95 (plain #OP034, or decorated #OP035). J.K. Adams 20-slot Kangaroo Knife Block - $99.99 (light oak #OP042, or sugar maple #OP043).
• Vertical Knife Blocks: When a knife descends vertically into a countertop block, it is not as easy to remove. This may be less convenient during cooking sessions but can provide added safety. If the block is pushed to the back of the counter, beneath overhanging cabinets when not in use, the larger knives become virtually impossible to remove. The upper cabinets are literally in the way. During cooking sessions, bring the block forward for easier access to the knives. Available from PCD: Shatter-resistant Flexible Glass Block with oak base - $99.99 (plain oak #OP032, or black #OP033).
• Under the Cabinet Block: Many people prefer the convenience of knife blocks that mount under a cabinet because they don't take up valuable counter or drawer space. The best models swing to the side when not in use so that the knife handles are not protruding from underneath your cabinets, and have magnets in each slot to keep knives securely stored. Although this device is out of reach of many pets and toddlers, it could still be a hazard to more ambitious or curious creatures. Available from PCD: The Swinger - $49.95 (#OP026).
• Magnetic Knife Bars: This is a common method of knife storage because it allows for easy identification and access to each knife. However, it can be the most hazardous. If you choose this route, be certain your knife bar has a powerful magnet, where knives aren't dislodged if "bumped" into. Such a bar should be mounted to a wall where "bumping" is nearly impossible, such as behind a counter. Never mount a magnetic bar to the side of a center island. If you walk around the island quickly, you may dislodge a knife and it could come straight down onto your foot. If you have pets or small children, avoid this method of storage completely. PCD has chosen not to include magnetic knife bars in its catalog or on its Web site. However, customers can order them by special request.
• Wall-mounted Cage: This solution provides much of the ease of a magnetic bar, but with far more security. A small block of wood is mounted to your wall. Your knives descend vertically through the block. A wire cage surrounds the knife blades, which keeps knives in full view, but protects both you, children, and pets from bumping into the blades or edges. However, it doesn't protect against a child's natural curiosity. Small fingers can still manage to get inside the cage. Available from PCD: Wall Mounted Block with cage - $44.95 (#OP031).
• In-drawer Trays: This is the most highly recommended solution for anyone with small children or pets. Unlike the other storage solutions, knives are out of sight. They rest in a special knife tray in a silverware drawer in the kitchen. With the addition of a child safety cabinet lock to the kitchen drawer, knives are out of reach of prying little hands or paws. Available from PCD: The Wave - $36.95 (#OP027).
• Edge Protector: Sometimes a favorite knife simply does not fit in any knife block. It should never be put away "naked" in a drawer. The edge can very easily be damaged in a tool drawer by coming in contact with other utensils, but most important, fingers are at risk of cuts when retrieving the knife or other adjacent tools. Consider using an edge protector, such as "Blade Savers," which are heavy-duty, long lasting plastic sheaths that slide over the edge and protect knives while they are in a drawer. Professional chefs use them frequently for the knives that they carry in their special knife luggage. We recommend you keep a blade protector on your knives whenever they are not in use. Available from PCD: Blade Savers - price and product code vary with size, starting at $1.80 - see catalog, www.cutlery.com or call for details.

While knives are among the most important tools in the kitchen, they can be dangerous. They need to be used and handled with appropriate care and above all, common sense. Special attention to the use, care and storage of knives will yield long years of use and safe cooking.

PCD is recognized as the kitchen provider that focuses primarily on culinary tools and useful information, and assists professional and home chefs in the selection and use of those tools. The company offers the largest in-stock selection of fine kitchen knives in the world, which comprises 40% of company sales. PCD also offers an enormous variety of commercial cookware not normally available to consumers, and other essential tools for the kitchen.

Chefs can place orders or request a free Professional Cutlery Direct catalog by phone at 1-877-MY-KNIFE, or via the Internet (www.cutlery.com) All products are backed by a 100% guarantee of satisfaction and return policy.

Professional Cutlery Direct (www.cutlery.com) is a primary source for the finest selection of the chef's essential tools including knives, cookware, furniture, and accessories. The company's chef, Will Cook, tests and trains all staff on products offered in the catalog. Founded in 1993, PCD achieved sales of $9 million in 1999, up from $5 million in 1998.

To arrange an interview or to receive digital photography, please contact: Michele FitzGerald at 203-871-1000 ext. 245 e-mail michelef@cutlery.com