Ski helmets reduce injury risk

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Skiing injuries are decreasing, but the number of ski related deaths has remained steady over the past 10 years.

The increased use of helmets has helped reduced the number of ski injuries and death; but the risks remain when out hitting the slopes.

Competitive Edge Ski and Bike owner Jim Kennedy says helmets have become more popular to wear.

They range from 50 dollars to 200 dollars but are all equal in safety, and Jim says every skiier or snowboarder should always wear a helmet.

"We had someone here who was in a collision which he had a concussion was knocked out, was in an ambulance and probably the helmet saved his life," said Kennedy.

In the last 10 years, head injuries have declined by 50 percent.

Still the number of people who die every year in America on the slopes remains at about 40.