Don’t fall down! But if you do - do it right.

Most of us don’t plan to fall down - but about 9 million Americans do each year. 

There is a right and wrong way to do it. Hal Needham, a professional stuntman, has some tips on how to fall down like a pro and prevent serious injury:

* Save your wrists. Our natural instinct is to put our hands out to break our fall. Unfortunately, that’s not all you’ll break. The small bones in the hands, wrists and arms are the most vulnerable. 

Buckle your knees. If you know you’re going down, get as low to the ground as possible to reduce impact.

* Throw one arm across your chest. It doesn’t matter which one. This will force your body to the side which is better than straight forward or back. Rotate your chest in the same direction.

The next time you’re watching an action film, take note of how stuntmen and women take a fall. While they may have the advantage of preparing for it, you’ll see how your split-second reaction could make or break your fall.