The age limit for mandatory wearing of a ski helmet has increased since the beginning of 2026. Skiers under 18 must now wear them. This follows from the amendment to the Mountain Rescue Service Act, which entered into force on January 1.
"The age limit for mandatory wearing of a ski helmet is being increased from the current 15 to 18 years. The aim is to protect the health of young skiers," explained the Ministry of the Interior, which is behind the amendment.
The amendment also brings other changes. For example, it is intended to prevent the misuse of the name and emblem of the Mountain Rescue Service. The amendment also establishes a professional organization, the National Association of Mountain Rescuers. "Its task will be to exercise professional competence outside mountain areas using rope techniques and to defend the interests of its members," the Ministry stated, adding that membership in it will be voluntary.
The amendment also expands the scope of mountain guide activities to include conducting technical assistance courses in the mountains. It also specifies the provisions regarding the terrain in which mountain guide activities are carried out. Now, in defined locations, rescue activities using rope or mountaineering techniques will also require professional competence similar to that required by rescuers in mountain areas. At the same time, the HZS could use unmanned aircraft in rescue activities and monitoring of mountain areas, according to the amendment.
Source: TASR
