Going by the findings of a new study by scientists at University of Calgary, skiers and snowboarders can reduce the risk of head injuries in a fall on the slopes if they wear helmets.

The conclusion by the researchers is largely based on the analysis of 12 studies in North America, Europe, and Asia, which found that skiers and snowboarders wearing a helmet face a 35 percent less risk of head injury.

As such, the study, published in the Monday edition of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, essentially promotes the use of helmets among skiers and snowboarders - more so as the researchers found that head injuries make up approximately one-fifth of all skiing and snowboarding injuries.

In the opinion of the study's lead author, Kelly Russell, a PhD student at the University, "It's safer to ski and snowboard with a helmet as opposed to not wearing one. Helmets do work." However, the research does not suggest the use of any specific type of helmet for ensuring maximum protection.

Meanwhile, informing that as per a hill area policy developed by the Canada West Ski Areas Association, John Ross - a Lake Louise Ski Area spokesman - said that while helmets are compulsory for children below 12 years enrolled in the resort's programs; the use of helmets is largely a "personal decision" of most of the adult skiers and snowboarders.