How To: Practice skateboarding safety

Whether you're headed for a half-pipe or your driveway, always be safe. Wearing protective gear and taking a few precautions can help prevent you from landing in the ER. Watch this video to learn how to practice skateboarding safety.

You Will Need

* A skateboard
* A helmet
* Knee pads
* Elbow pads
* Wrist guards
* Proper shoes
* Common sense

WARNING: Always wear protective clothing, including a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, kneepads, and appropriate footwear. Skateboarding is not recommended for children under the age of 6, and children between the ages of 6 and 10 should only be allowed to ride with adult supervision.

Step 1. Choose the right skateboard

Make sure you're comfortable with your board. Smaller skaters usually use shorter, narrower boards to give them better control.

Step 2. Check your skateboard

Give your skateboard a good once over: check the deck – the wood board you stand on; trucks – the metal hardware that attaches the wheels to the deck; the wheels; and grip tape to make sure everything is in working order.

Step 3. Wear a helmet

The most important piece of safety gear is your helmet. It should fit snugly but comfortably, and should never block your vision or hearing.

Step 4. Wear knee pads

Wear knee and elbow pads, especially if you plan on doing tricks. Even when you're just skating around your neighborhood, they offer great protection.

Step 5. Wear wrist guards

Don't forget wrist guards. These special gloves feature plastic or metal splints that run along the undersides of your wrists and palms. The extra support helps keep you from breaking your wrists in the event of a fall.

Step 6. Wear the right shoes

Wear proper shoes. Footwear should be closed-toe and slip-resistant.

Step 7. Use Common sense

Use common sense. Make sure your skating surface is smooth and free of rocks and debris.

FACT: Each year there are more than 70,000 skateboarding acci