Do Kids Need a Helmet for Skiing?

Fans were shocked and saddened when actress Natasha Richardson died from a head injury after a seemingly minor, low-speed fall on the ski slope. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medical say that a helmet could have saved her life. As well as saving lives, helmets reduce the risk and severity of injuries, according to research conducted by Johns Hopkins Medical. Many ski areas require helmet use, but even in areas that do not have helmet rules, safety-conscious parents require them.

  1. Recommendations

    • The National Ski Areas Association recommends skiing helmet use. Most parents already understand the safety benefits of helmets. A study conducted by the NSAA reports that 91 percent of children under the age of 9 already wear helmets. Parents can increase slope safety by insisting that children always ski within their ability and follow all posted signs as well, as always skiing responsibly.

    Statistics

    • Helmet use decreases head injury by 30 to 50 percent, according to the NSAA. However, parents should keep a couple of points in mind. The head injury decrease applies to injuries, but not to high-speed fatalities. In other words, make sure your child does not ski recklessly or at high speed, activities that increase the chance for a fatal injury. LidsOnKids.org backs this up, stating that helmets are most effective at preventing injury at speeds slower than 14 mph.

    Regulations

    • While state laws are spotty on ski helmet use, many ski areas have rules regarding helmet use at their location. Vail and Aspen have had rules in place since 2009 requiring helmet use for children taking ski lessons on their properties. Many ski areas rent helmets for those who don't own one. The rentals present an opportunity for parents and children to try different styles or brands of helmets before purchasing one.

    Helmet Quality

    • When purchasing a helmet for your child, do not buy one that fits improperly thinking that he will grow into it. Fit is critical to the helmet performing its job. Take care to try on helmets until the fit feels comfortable and the straps hold the helmet securely. Read the labeling and look for a helmet that meets ASTM International standard F2040 or Snell RS-98. ASTM and Snell are not-for-profit organizations that develop safety standards and tests for helmets.

    2. Previous:

    Next: