MARYSVILLE – Winter is here. Although it might not be snowing in the lowlands this weekend, some families may be headed to the mountains this winter to enjoy snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Helmets are essential to keeping adults and children safe while participating in these sports.

Marysville Fire has ski helmets available for $20. The sizes available include small, medium and large; and they will fit young children through most adults. The helmets, provided by Safe Kids Snohomish County, are of equal quality to the helmets found in specialty stores, for a fraction of the cost and come with lined padding and ear covers. The cost of the helmet goes into keeping a supply of helmets stocked throughout the winter months. Neither Marysville Fire nor Safe Kids Snohomish County makes a profit from the cost.

According to Safe Kids USA, “Helmets, when worn properly can prevent or reduce the effects of 53 percent of the head injuries suffered by children in the United States while skiing or snowboarding.”

To purchase a ski helmet, contact Kristen Thorstenson at 360-363-8507 to set up a fitting appointment. The person for whom the helmet is intended for must be present at time of fitting and purchase.