(HealthDay News) -- Snowboarding, like any snow sport, can be dangerous if you fail to take a few precautions.

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests these safety tips for snowboarders:

  • Before you begin, make sure you're in good physical shape and that you take snowboarding lessons.
  • Make sure you use well-fitting equipment, including boots, snowboard and ski poles.
  • Wear protective gear, including wrist guards, a helmet, and arm and shin guards.
  • If you feel yourself starting to fall, keep fists closed, and try to roll into the fall.