Back Pack Safety Checklist
In 2013 alone, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission cited 5,415 backpack related injuries treated at emergency rooms. Doctors of chiropractic (DC’s) point to the dangers of heavy backpacks, resulting in injuries ranging from acute and chronic back pain to other painful conditions.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) recommends that parents choose the right backpack (see list below) and then help their children pack them properly, leaving out unnecessary items to ensure they weigh no more than 10 percent of a child’s weight.
ü Is the backpack the correct size for your child?
ü Does the backpack have padded shoulder straps for comfort?
ü Are the shoulder straps adjustable?
ü Does the backpack have a padded back?
ü Does the backpack have compartments to keep contents in place?