Choosing the Right Backpack

With school just around the corner, here are some tips for choosing and using backpacks safely.

• Choose right - Choosing the right size backpack is the first and most important step to safe backpack use. Bring a friend to help you measure your backpack properly. The proper size backpack is 75 percent of the length of a child's back, approximately the space between the shoulder blades and waist.
• Pack right - The maximum weight of the loaded backpack should not exceed 15 percent of your body weight. Pack only what you need for the day. Carry a book or two by hand to relieve the load if necessary. If the backpack forces the wearer to lean forward to carry, it's overloaded.
• Lift right - Use these steps for proper lifting to prevent injury:
  1. Face the pack.
  2. Bend at the knees.
  3. Using both hands, check the weight of the pack.
  4. Lift with your legs.
  5. Apply one shoulder strap at a time. Avoid slinging the pack onto your back.
• Wear it right - Use both shoulder straps at all times to avoid unnecessary pressure to one side of your body. Make the shoulder straps snug, but not too tight. When your backpack has a waist strap, use it to stabilize the load.
• Keep backpacks off the floors and clear of walkways. Prevent the possibility of someone tripping over your backpack.
• Do not swing your backpack. It could hurt you and it is dangerous to those around you.
• Do not put sharp or pointed objects in the backpack. Store pens and pencils in a safe spot.

For more information on backpack safety visit www.backpacksafe.com or contact Backpack Safety America at 1-800-672-4277.