Skiers of all ages may soon need to strap on a helmet, if they want to hit the slopes in Nova Scotia.

The province introduced legislation today that will make wearing ski helmets mandatory for all ages, which it says will help to reduce ski-related head injuries.

"Many Nova Scotians enjoy activities like skiing and snowboarding to stay active over the winter months, but these are activities that should be enjoyed safely," said Maureen MacDonald, Minister of Health and Wellness, in a statement released today.

"Wearing a helmet greatly reduces the risk of suffering a traumatic brain injury and could be the one thing on the hill that saves a life."

The province says there have been 11 traumatic brain injuries attributed to people who went skiing or snowboarding without a helmet on in the province since 2000.

If passed, the Snowsport Helmet Act will be the first legislation of its kind in the world. But it's not the first time the province has introduced legislation surrounding the mandatory use of helmets.

Cyclists of all ages are required to wear helmets when biking in Nova Scotia, and the province says it reports the highest rate of bike helmet use in North America, with the lowest rate of cycling-related brain injuries in Canada.

Lynne Fenerty, research manager with the QEII Health Sciences Centre division of neurosurgery says the incidence of skiing-related brain injuries is increasing and that most of these injuries are preventable.

"Head injuries are the leading cause of death among skiers of all ages, and helmet-use reduces the risk for skiers by up to 60 per cent," says Fenerty. "We have worked with ski hill operators in the past to improve helmet use, and I would like to commend them on their leadership.

"In spite of these initiatives, a quarter of skiers and snowboarders still remain vulnerable. This legislation will help ensure that all Nova Scotians remain safer on the slopes."

The province is recommending that anyone aged 16 years or older is responsible to ensure they are wearing a helmet, while parents or guardians must ensure children under the age of 16 are wearing one when they hit the slopes.

Ski hill operators will be responsible for posting signs that will make skiers aware of mandatory helmet use, and if an inspector sees a violation, the individual could face up to $250 for each offence.

If passed, the Snowsport Helmet Act will come into effect November 1, 2012.