Skiers And Snowboarders Strongly Advised To Wear A Helmet

Note: Whilst it may seem strange to be putting out a media release concerning show and skiing in Summer, the media release below is in response to comments made late last week at the coroner’s inquest into a skier death in the Canterbury region.

New Zealand Mountain Safety Council Media Release

Monday 21 February 2011

Skiers And Snowboarders Strongly Advised To Wear A Helmet

Supporting recent comments made by the Canterbury regional coroner at the inquest into the tragic death of a skier last year, the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council strongly recommends that all Skiers and Snowboarders wear helmets.

Mountain Safety Council Alpine and Avalanche Programme Manager Andrew Hobman says helmets absolutely reduce the potential impact pressures to the head.
“It does not take much to hit your head really hard. We all dream of skiing in deep soft powder snow but the reality is groomed snow is firm, not to mention rocks and other hazards. Even experienced skiers and snowboarders can take a tumble and hit their head. Given the nature of the sport, falls tend to be at a higher speed and sudden. We strongly recommend people wear a properly fitted and well adjusted helmet. ” said Mr Hobman.

Helmet use is becoming more widespread. They are common-place on riders using terrain parks and during racing and in ‘Big Mountain’ events. We are starting to see more and more kids wearing helmets but all too often their parents are not.

The Mountain Safety Council’s particular concern is that people take responsibility for their own safety, know their abilities and stay within their limits. Whilst wearing a helmet will help reduce the chance of a head injury, failing to understand your own limits and staying in control are major factors which often lead to alpine incidents. People should also factor in the difficulty of the terrain and the weather conditions they choose to ski in.

When venturing onto the ski slopes, the Mountain Safety Council advises everyone to follow The Snow Responsibility Code:
1. Give way to others
2. Stay in control at all times
Know your ability, be able to stop and avoid other people
3. People below you have the right of way
4. Always use a spotter when jumping
Do not jump on to trails and always ensure the area is clear of others first
5. Stop where you can be seen, move to the outside of a trail
6. Brakes or leashes must be used to help prevent runaway equipment
7. If you are involved in, or witness an accident, remain at the scene and identify yourself to ski patrol
8. Obey all ski area signage
Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
9. Respect the safety and enjoyment of others

ENDS

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