AMHERST – Amherst is going to take another look at its proposed ice helmet policy before enacting it.
While council was prepared to enact the policy, it opted to send it back to the committee of the whole for further consideration with hopes it can still be implemented in time for the 2018-19 ice season at the Amherst Stadium.
“Having read the policy, I’m not sure I agree with some of the wording,” Deputy Mayor Sheila Christie said during Monday’s Amherst March council meeting. “I would like to see this amended or postponed until we can some of the wording clarified.”
When enacted, the policy will require all users of the stadium to wear a CSA-approved helmet when using the ice surface. Until now, the use of helmets for ice users is strongly recommended, but not compulsory.
The town’s recreation department identified a need for a review of helmet practices for on-ice activities at the stadium since certified CSA helmets have been proven to help reduce the risk of head injuries for participants.
Christie said she agrees that a policy is needed, but there are some questions about enforcing a helmet policy when there are on-ice ceremonies prior to games. She’s also questioning whether requiring adults to wear helmets while skating is needed.
“We live in a bubble wrap society, adults have to have some discretion,” she said.
Coun. Terry Rhindress said several seniors who attend adult skating sessions have approached him with concerns, suggesting they may not skate next winter if they’re forced to wear a helmet.
“One person told me she can’t wear a helmet because it’s too tight on her jaw,” Rhindress said. “She said she probably won’t skate next winter if she has to wear a helmet.”
He questioned if the town is being directed to enact a policy for insurance reasons?
Coun. Wayne MacKenzie, who introduced the motion, said a policy is needed, but there should be an ability for adult users to sign a waiver if they choose not to wear a helmet while skating.
Coun. Jason Blanch is in full support of the policy and having it implemented immediately.
“I was on the ski patrol at Ski Wentworth when the helmet rule came into effect there. There were a lot of concerns during the transition period, but in the end, it proved to be a positive move,” Blanch said. “The ski hill is as busy as ever and I truly believe this policy is the best thing.”
Amherst’s recreation director Bill Schurman said the policy is all about promoting safety. He said the department talked to other communities across the region and found the majority do require users to wear helmets on the ice.
Schurman understands some people may not have helmets, but thanks to a grant from the province the town has helmets it can lend to users.
“We hope people understand it’s all about the safety of the people who are using the facility,” Schurman said. “We have strongly recommended people wear a helmet, but it’s never been to the point where you must. After several years of strongly recommending, we’re still finding a lot of users who are not following that recommendation.
“You have to wear a helmet to bicycle, you have to wear a helmet in the skate park and you have to wear a helmet to ski,” Schurman said. “When you’re on the ice the chances of a head injury are as great as those other activities.”
While he understands it could be an inconvenience, he said, the town is willing to work with people should the town opt to enact the policy.
“It’s all about safety,” he said.
Twitter: @ADNdarrell
