almost lost a finger today - tips for not destroying myself?

Don't rely on the wall switch while retrieving anything. Disconnect the disposal from power, and keep fingers and hands out even then. The model's instructions should explain the safe way to remove an object; long-handled tongs or pliers are the usual tools for a visible item.

If the spoon is wedged or you can't reach it safely, leave the disposal off and get help. Gloves don't make reaching inside safe.

Definitely seconding the tongs idea - saved my fingers more times than I care to admit. Clear breaker labels help, but check that you've actually disconnected power to the disposal rather than relying on the label or wall switch. Keep hands out of the opening and follow the unit's instructions for retrieving anything stuck inside.

"Definitely seconding the tongs idea - saved my fingers more times than I care to admit."

Tongs are decent, but honestly, a telescoping magnet has been way more useful for me. Dropped a screwdriver into a tight spot once and spent half an hour fishing it out with tongs before switching to the magnet... took seconds. Also, labeling breakers clearly is good advice, but double-check anyway - labels aren't always reliable (ask me how I know...).

Telescoping magnets are pretty handy, but what about non-metal stuff? I've had plastic measuring spoons slip down there before - magnets won't help much with that. Tongs can be awkward too, especially if the disposal opening is narrow. Maybe one of those flexible claw grabbers could work better? Curious if anyone's tried those... seems like they'd be good for tight spaces where magnets or tongs struggle.

A flexible claw could be worth trying for a visible plastic spoon if the head fits freely, but it may be bulky or hard to steer in a narrow opening. Don’t force it or put your hand inside to guide it; disconnect power first, and leave the disposal off if the object won’t come out easily.

A simple habit is to pause for a quick visual check of the sink before switching the disposal on, especially after washing dishes. If you spot anything in it, leave the switch off and use the safe retrieval steps people mentioned above.