Helmets not mandatory on outdoor rinks around Winnipeg — should they be?

As Winnipeggers flock to the outdoor rinks, ponds and the river trail to lace up and skate during the winter season, the question of helmets continues to linger.

When you hop on a bike, provincial regulations dictate you must have a helmet on until the age of 18. But, no similar laws exist for skating on rock solid ice, often peppered with ruts, obstacles and people, no matter what age you are.

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The City of Winnipeg’s website shows helmets are not mandatory while on the ice.

“We strongly recommend the use of a proper-fitting, CSA-approved hockey helmet with a face mask for all age groups,” it reads on the website.

Jeff Billeck is the Head Athletic Therapist for the University of Winnipeg Wesman Athletics.

Billeck said while helmets aren’t mandatory, they should be seen as a safety measure for kids that can prevent severe injury.

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“They don’t necessarily prevent concussion, but they definitely prevent more severe injuries, like skull fractures, that type of injury. And those more severe head injuries can definitely be life-altering or life-threatening,” Billeck said.

Since May 1, 2013, the province has required cyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet and now parents are asking for similar laws when it comes to skating.

“As a general rule I would say it would be good to have it mandatory, say till 10. I mean then it’s just mandatory, it’s done, they don’t have to worry about it. Even if they’re good skaters there’s nothing wrong with having a helmet on,” James Friesen, a Winnipeg father, said.