Here a a few safety tool I have for cutting. One ER visit will buy one of each with money left over for a lot of fabric.
http://quiltersslidelock.com/ my favorite, I have both sizes.
http://www.rulesteady.com/ bought before I found Quilters Slide Lock.
http://thegypsyquilter.com/thegypsygripper.htm I use the small one the most. It's great for small rulers.
I have several cut resistant gloves I keep in my class/workshop tote.