Unfortunately when it comes to spinning props the learning curve is pretty steep and respect for them is more often than not learned the hard way
as most of us have.
a bit of flat white on the prop tips will serve to make visible the arc of the prop, a good rugged cowhide work glove when your fingers are in proximity to the prop
along with a good measure of respect for how bad a prop can mame you will serve well to keep you out of harms way.
I got clubbed by a saito 220 running at about half throttle with a mejzlik prop it hit me in the middle finger ,cut the pad to the bone all the way to the first joint and smashed it into the ring and pinky fingers so hard that my hand swelled to double its size it took a week and a half for the swelling to go down and nearly a year for the firey hot burning numb sensation to go away.
Another rule I now follow religiously is NEVER take your eyes off your hands at anytime for any reason when they anywhere near the prop if you do theres a very strong chance you WILL get bit.
ORIGINAL: dea2287
Much remorse and many lessons learned today. One thing that may have helped is a prop with some color on the tips. Mine is all black, and as such a bit hard to tell it's diameter when spinning. Have some first aid supplies on hand, try not to fly alone, take your cell phone. Also, as mentioned - disonnect the glow wires and trim from behind the motor.
I may start wearing some leather or canvas work gloves when starting. Or, as I am thinking now, just go electric.
It's not just props, of course. The guy at the LHS said he ''filleted'' his finger once with a hobby blade. He did the classic thing - pulled toward himself, not pushing away - slipped and sliced his other hand's index finger full length.
Sheesh...tough hobby!!