Winter brings opportunities for outdoor fun with snowmobiling, sledding, skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. While these activities promote physical activity and family time, they also come with risks. Head injuries are among the most common winter sports injuries for children and teens, many of which are preventable with proper helmet use.
Why Helmets Matter:
- Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries during falls or collisions.
- Young riders often travel at higher speeds during winter sports, increasing injury risk.
Choosing the Right Helmet for Winter Activities:
- Snowmobiling: DOT-approved full-face
- Skiing/Snowboarding: Snowsport-specific helmets
- Sledding/Tubing: A ski or snowboard helmet is best
- Skating: Multi-sport helmets with appropriate certification
Fit and Care Tips:
- Ensure helmets fit snugly and do not shift when the child moves.
- Replace helmets after any significant impact or if they show cracks or damage.
- Never use bicycle helmets for snowmobiling or high-speed winter sports, they are not designed for cold weather or high-impact crashes.
Quick Winter Helmet Check:
- Does the helmet sit level on your child’s head?
- Ensure helmets fit snugly and do not shift when the child moves.
- Are straps snug? If checking a ski, snowboard, bike, or skate helmet, does the strap form a “V” under each ear?
- Replace helmets after any significant impact or if they show cracks or damage.
- Is the helmet rated for the sport they’re about to do?
Setting a Safe Example:
Children are more likely to wear helmets consistently when adults do. Modeling safe behavior helps build lifelong safety habits.
Staying Safe Makes Winter More Fun:
With the right helmet and proper fit, winter sports become safer and more enjoyable for young riders. A few simple steps can prevent life-changing injuries and ensure a season full of safe outdoor adventures.
If your family needs help accessing a properly fitted winter sport helmet, the Summit County Health Department can help. Email healthpromotionteam@summitcountyutah.gov to learn about free youth DOT-approved full-faced helmets for kids and teens. Supplies limited – first come first serve.