Earlier this month it was reported that a 15-year-old from Brisbane, Australia died from a weightlifting accident. The young man was found on a bench press with the bar across his neck, loaded up with ~220 pounds of weight.

It's a tragic and one upon which I don't intend to speculate. The local authorities and the facility have been working to figure out how such an event even occurred. I plan to leave the investigation in their hands.

When I first read about this story, I wasn't sure whether or not I was qualified to comment. Sure, I lift weights 7 days a week, but I don't consider myself very strong or the weights I move all-that heavy. I'm not a certified trainer. I'm not a doctor. I'm just a guy who lifts things up and puts them back down.

But with years of lifting experience under my belt and with plenty of injuries to my name, I think that even my advice may come in handy to anyone looking to stay safe while lifting.

1. Have A Spotter

For those who may not know, a spotter is someone that watches you while you lift, ready to help you should the applied weight and gravity become too much. It can be as little as helping you re-rack your weights or helping you push past your failing point.

The idea is that it's an extra body present in case anything goes wrong. When lifting weights, things tend to escalate rather quickly.

This may seem like common sense, but I've seen plenty of people at the gym ego-lifting weights they can barely handle. I have even sprinted across the gym floor to help someone finish their rep. What's more, it's okay to ask for help! Find the biggest, strongest person at your gym and ask them to spot you. Who is going to say no?

2. Know Your Limits

This can get tricky. As we constantly get stronger, we can handle more weight for more reps. But, we're also constantly trying to push past the weight we lifted yesterday. We're constantly trying to finish that extra rep.

In these situations you should always refer back to Tip 1.

It's also common to have an "off" day at the gym. Maybe you're sick. Maybe you're just "off your groove." Maybe one of your lifts just feels weird. In any of these scenarios, also find yourself a spotter.

3. When In Doubt, Refer To #1

Rinse and repeat.

Having a lifting partner, or at least a spotter, can help save you from sticky situations that can arise while working out. A lifting buddy can be motivating and entertaining, too.

Be smart and be safe.