Las Vegas, NV – Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort (LVSSR) has distributed more than 1,250 free ski and snowboard helmets to local youth through its award-winning Lids on Kids program since its launch during the 2006-07 ski season. This year, LVSSR and partner Centennial Hills Hospital in Las Vegas distributed 250 helmets to local youth. The program was held on five consecutive Saturdays starting on Jan. 5 and it coincided with National Ski Area Association Safety Week and Learn to Ski/Snowboard Month.

Lids on Kids is a national initiative created by the National Ski Area Association (NSAA). The program includes a Skier/Snowboarder Safety Responsibility Code class for children and their parents. A National Ski Patrol member leads the class. After the class and short video, each child is fitted with a helmet and the parents are given instructions on proper fit and usage. LVSSR is the only ski area in the United States that provides helmets to children at no charge through its program.

“Skier safety is a top priority for Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort,” said Kevin Stickelman, LVSSR’s president and general manager.  “It is our mission to encourage local youth to explore the outdoors and to understand how to do that in a safe manner.  LVSSR is committed to growing this program and to fostering our community’s appreciation for the many outdoor recreation opportunities in Las Vegas.”

In 2012, LVSSR received the NSAA National Ski Area Safety award for its Lids on Kids program. LVSSR’s program had the distinction of being recognized as the Best Helmet Safety Program in the nation for the 2011-2012 Season and the area was featured in the August 2012 issue of the NSAA Journal.