School safety, security, and violence prevention resource

Going back to school can be one of the most exciting times in a child’s life. After almost two months of being at home and away from many of his school friends, a child finds himself yearning to socialize in the school environment once again. More than that, the thrill of having to buy a lot of new stuff – even if they are for school – is hard to beat. At least this is how I remember feeling when I was a kid and my children were basically the same way. Yet before you go ahead and buy your child that fashionable new backpack that “everyone is asking for,” maybe you should remind yourself of the safety aspects.

Not all backpacks are made the same and certainly not all of them are designed with function as the primary goal. In fact, poorly designed backpacks and improper use could lead to problems for children. That is why many experts, including those in the Consumer Product Safety Commission, have continuously tried to inform parents of this issue.

For example, did you know that a wrong backpack can cause injuries such as muscle and joint pains? Did you also know that a wrong backpack can lead to improper posture? And these are only some of the things that can result from a wrong backpack! Here are some tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission to help you make the right choice.

• Purchase a pack that weighs approximately one pound and has wide, adjustable padded shoulder straps. The length of the pack should not be more than the length of the child’s back and should not be lower than the waist. In addition, backpacks that offer multiple compartments may help students stay organized.

• The maximum weight of the loaded pack should be 15 percent of the carriers body weight. If the weight of the pack causes the wearer to bend forward or backward, it is too heavy. Placing the heavy books closest to the spine will help distribute the weight in a better fashion and keep the weight close to the wearer’s center of gravity. In addition, students often need to be taught how to evenly distribute the weight in the pack and prioritize what they pack.

• The pack should be securely fastened and worn so that straps are placed over both shoulders. Wearing the pack on one shoulder is truly the cause of most pack related injuries.

Try to bear in mind these things as the school year starts. Our children’s health is our priority.

Photo courtesy of Jill Greenseth

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Posted on August 29th, 2008 by Deborah J Thomas
Filed under: High School, K-6, News, Parents, People Involved, School Grade Level, Students