Do you mow your own lawn? It can be dangerous if precautions aren’t taken.

According to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, cuts, burns, injuries due to loose objects on the lawn, fractures and amputations are some types of lawn mower injuries.

Whether you're new at mowing your lawn, or have been doing it injury-free for decades, these safety tips will help you prevent injuries:

1. Keep your mower in good working order with sharp blades. And only use a mower that has protection over hot and sharp parts. Do not remove safety devices or guards on switches.

2. Before you start mowing, pick up potential flying objects, such as stones, toys and debris from the lawn.

3. Wear goggles, hearing protection, gloves, long pants and close-toed shoes to avoid injuries.

4. Do not drink alcohol or use other substances before or while using your lawn mower.

5. Never insert hands or feet into the mower to remove grass or debris. Even with the motor turned off, the blade can still be spinning. Use a stick or broom handle instead.

6. When being moved or picked up, the lawn mower should be turned off, spark plug disconnected, and unplugged.

7. Never cut grass when it is wet or damp.

8. Never allow children under age 12 to operate a push mower or those under 16 to drive a riding mower. Keep children off the lawn while mowing, and never have a passenger on your riding mower, especially a child.

9. Do not pull a mower backward or ride it in reverse unless necessary.

10. If you suffer a lawn mower injury, seek medical attention immediately. Even seemingly small injuries, like wounds or cuts can harbor unsafe bacteria.

Source: American Society for Surgery of the Hand