Need safety tips for cutting tile with a rotary tool - almost lost a finger!

Hey guys, total newbie here. I'm trying to cut some ceramic tile for a backsplash project with my rotary tool and a diamond cutting wheel attachment. Last night I was working and the tool jumped, nearly took my finger off! Scared the crap out of me. What am I doing wrong? Should I be wearing special gloves or something? Any tips to avoid turning this into a trip to the ER?

Matt, first things first - NEVER wear gloves with rotary tools! That's how you get tangled up and lose fingers. You need proper PPE: safety glasses (not sunglasses), a dust mask (ceramic dust is nasty), and hearing protection if you're running it long. Make sure you're using a firm grip with both hands, let the tool do the work - don't force it. And for tile, keep the surface wet to control dust and prevent overheating the wheel. Check your attachment is tight before starting too.

What Steve said ^. Also, make sure you're using the right wheel - diamond for tile, not those cheap abrasive ones. And go slow, man! Rotary tools aren't meant for heavy cutting like a tile saw. Score your line first with light pressure, then deepen it gradually. If you're doing a lot of tile, rent a wet saw - way safer and you'll get cleaner cuts. Trust me, I've seen too many sparkies try to shortcut with rotary tools and end up with stitches.