Fairfield-Echo.com

(HealthDayNews) -- Before you lace up your ice skates and slide onto the closest rink, brush up on your safe-skating skills.

The U.S. National Safety Council offers these tips:

• Wear skates that fit comfortably and give enough ankle support to keep you on your feet.
• Have the blades professionally sharpened at the start of each season.
• Be aware of cracks, holes and debris on the ice.
• Bundle up and rest when you feel tired or cold.
• Avoid skating alone.