How do I safely handle the motherboard to avoid damage from static electricity?

Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object such as a metal power supply case to avoid static electricity damage. Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them, and whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. Always unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.