If the wounded individual hasn't had a tetanus shot in the last five years and the wound is deep or unclean, your doctor may advise a booster injection. The wounded individual should have the booster shot within 48 hours of becoming hurt. The best way to avoid getting tetanus is by being up-to-date with your immunizations and taking care of any wounds that might be open to the air. Tetanus is rare but it can happen if someone gets cut off from their blood supply for several minutes such as during a car accident. People who don't know they've been bitten by an insect without washing first are also at risk for getting tetanus. Those who work with animals or eat meat products often get a tetanus shot because these activities put them at risk for contracting the disease. Thumbtacks get stuck in shoes and clothes so individuals who wear shoes with untied laces or who don't wash their hands after handling dog feces are at risk for getting stuck. If you're going to spend time outdoors, it's a good idea to carry around some form of protection for your feet. This could include boots or sandals with the holes punched out for your toes, or socks stuffed with crumpled up paper. Getting a tetanus shot isn't just important for adults, children too need shots to protect themselves against the disease.