I've not heard the term death wheel before. It's an apt moniker. I've disintegrated many dremel wheels, and partially fractured 4 1/2" discs. Kickbacks are the worst, and probably are the main cause of disc failure and injury. No matter how much I try to avoid kickbacks, they seem to be a calculated risk.

Attention to task is the best prevention, safety goggles and ear plugs are the minimal PPE.