How to prevent ESD Damage to components?

[3D08]

So I have been reading up on lots of facts about ESD damage to components. I hear you need a static wristband and some sort of anti static mat. I have spent a lot already on my components for my PC as well as myself being a first time builder. Before I build my computer, what precautions will I need to take to avoid ESD damage, apart from precautions such as wearing an anti static wristband or working on an anti static mat. What are the alternatives?

For example, should I wear rubber shoes or rubber flip flops, work on a wooden desk e.t.c... ?

 

[synphul]

A wriststrap is usually sufficient. If you can, try to work on a hard surface such as a table or countertop like a kitchen table, desk etc. Not the floor if it's carpeted, the bed or other places with cloth. If possible try to stand on a hard surface floor like tile or wood rather than carpet. If you can't avoid carpet try to wear shoes (rather than socks) and try not to shuffle around. Think of the way kids shuffle around on carpet in their socks to 'zap' their siblings or friends, that's what not to do lol. An antistatic wristband is cheap and simple, places a metal bond between your skin and the pc case. Try to hold components by their edges such as the motherboard, ram, cpu - basically anything with a pcb (circuit board).

Just being careful things should work out fine. Don't be scared of the components though as if they'll break if you look at them wrong. Being too nervous can cause people to drop things without meaning to in situations they normally wouldn't for fear of 'being careful'. Aside from that, take your time, read directions, ask questions if you're unsure and enjoy the building process rather than sweating it.