From 1993 to 1997, the estimated number of hospital emergency room-treated injuries of all types associated with skiing declined from 114,400 to 84,200. The injuries have partially dropped from the improvements in ski equipment, such as redesigned bindings, which reduced injuries to the legs. Head injuries were essentially unchanged at 13,600 in 1993 and 12,700 in 1997. For snowboarding, hospital emergency room treated injuries increased from 12,600 in 1993 to 37,600 in 1997. The number of head injuries associated with snowboarding increased from 1,000 in 1993 to 5,200 in 1997. Part of this increase was due to the fact that the number of snowboarders almost doubled from 1993 of 1.8 million to 2.5 million in 1997.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is recommending skiers and snowboarders wear approved helmets to help prevent head injuries from falls and collisions. A study performed by the CPSC concluded that the use of a helmet by skiers and snowboarders could prevent or reduce the severity of 44% of head injuries to adults, and 53% of head injuries to children under the age of 15. Head injuries are more prevalent in children (those under 15) than any other age group. The study also showed that the use of helmets could possibly prevent about 11 deaths per year due to skiing and snowboarding collisions/falls.

Besides wearing a helmet approved for your activity consider the following tips next time you hit the slopes.

Select the right equipment, and make sure items such as bindings and boots are adjusted to fit YOU properly. If renting, assure that these changes are made prior to hitting the slopes. Make sure you have the proper training, and don't ski or snowboard beyond your ability. Almost every resort should offer lessons. Approach tow lifts with caution. Never jump from a lift. Have the ability to load and unload from the tow lifts safely. Ski and snowboard in control, and follow the rules of the slopes. Make sure to go slow in the slow zones and watch for other patrons on the slopes. Never ski or snowboard alone. Make sure someone is there to help you if you get hurt. If skiing or boarding in the back country, have portable radios or walkie-talkies that you can use to communicate with others. Be aware of avalanche alerts and do not ski or board out of bounds. Get in shape before you hit the slopes. Making sure you are physically fit before you ski or snowboard can help prevent injuries. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is YOUR responsibility to avoid them. Always use devices to help prevent run away equipment. Wear warm, close-fitting clothing. Loose clothing can become entangled in lifts, tow ropes and ski poles. Dress appropriately and in layers. If you are injured it can take some time before help arrives. Do you have the right kind of clothing to keep you warm for extended periods of time?