(HealthDay News) — Sports such as skiing, snowboarding and ice skating can sometimes lead to sprains, dislocations and fractures.

In fact, some 200,000 people are treated for winter sports-related injuries every year, says the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

To avoid hurting yourself, the academy suggests:

• Never engage in a winter sport alone.
• Keep in shape and warm up sufficiently.
• Wear appropriate protective gear and layers of water-resistant clothing.
• Check that equipment is working before use.
• Take lessons from a qualified instructor.
• Drink plenty of water before, during and after the sport.
• Be aware of how to get help if frostbite or hypothermia occur.
• Pay attention to weather updates and storm warnings.
• Abide by all rules of the sport.

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