(HealthDay News) -- Proper care, maintenance and use of your lawnmower can help reduce your risk of injury.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions:

• Maintain your lawnmower and keep its blades sharp.
• Service your mower before the first use each season.
• Always turn off the motor when you inspect or repair your mower.
• To remove debris from beneath the mower, use the handle of a broom or a stick. Never do this while the mower is running.
• Keep all safety devices or shields on the mower.
• Always turn off the mower before you walk away from it.
• To prevent the possibility of burning your skin, never touch the engine cowling, which can become very hot.