As more and more people take up skateboarding and practice to learn how to perform cool and exciting skateboard tricks, it goes without saying (but we'll say it here anyway) that more and more people are also going to end up injuring themselves too. Now, most, if not all of these injuries are unintentional - of course, nobody actually sets out to purposely hurt themselves. That being said, although unintentional, these bumps and bruises are preventable, and can be avoided if a little common sense is employed. Even though skateboarding is fun, it can actually turn and become quite dangerous in a hurry if people aren't aware of both their surroundings and their own skill levels and abilities.

With that in mind, and in the interest of public safety, here are some common and easily applied skateboarding safety tricks that you - or any other aspiring skateboarder can use - to ensure that all your skateboard adventures are both fun and safe.

1. Always wear protective safety gear. Even the top professional riders put on a helmet, elbow guards and knee pads when they're riding. Make certain when you do purchase safety gear, that it fits comfortably, provides protection and doesn't impede your ability to actually move about and see what you're doing when you're riding.

2. Never ride on a bumpy surface. A majority of skateboarding accidents and injuries occur as a result of people simply falling off their decks when they hit a bump or pothole in the road. Always ride your skateboards on flat, smooth, clean surfaces which don't feature rocks, cracks, holes, divots or anything else that could potentially catch and trap your deck.

3. Learning how to fall can go a great way to minimizing the impact and damage caused by a sudden spill. When you feel your balance beginning to wane, try to crouch down on the skateboard. That way, if and when you do fall, the distance that you travel to the ground will not be so great. Additionally, try to roll with the fall, rather than trying to suddenly stop yourself using your arms or hands.

4. Always perform a safety inspection check of your skateboard before you head out to ride. Closely look at the trucks and wheels of your deck to make certain that nothing is loose or wobbly. As well, take a look at the grip tape which sits on the top of your board and check to see that it isn't starting to peel off.

5. Don't skate above your skill level. If you look at the world's greatest skateboarders, they make it look incredibly easy. However, it took many years of practice before they were able to successfully execute those amazing moves. And even top pros still fall from time-to-time. Don't try to become Tony Hawk on the very first day you hop on a board.

If you follow these five simple safety rules, you should have an enjoyable time while out and about on your skateboard. Now, as you become more versed on your deck, you are going to have to adapt your safety thinking to handle your improved skill level. That being said these five rules will always be applicable - no matter how good you become.