ICPA - Backpack Safety

Family Wellness First!
Back Pack Safety

Taking the Measures to Protect Spinal Health
July - August 2002 ICPA Newsletter

As school approaches and we get new back packs for our children, there are important safety measures to consider in choosing and wearing back packs. Back Pack Safety America/ International gives us these simple steps for avoiding injury and improving spinal health.

Step 1: Choose Right.

Choosing the right size backpack is the most important step to safe backpack use.

Tip: Bring a friend to help you measure your backpack properly.

Step 2: Pack Right

The maximum weight of the loaded backpack should not exceed 15 % of your body weight, so pack only what is needed.

Tip: If the backpack forces the wearer to move forward to carry, it's overloaded.

Step 3: Lift Right.

Face the Pack -Bend at the Knees - Use both hands and check the weight of

the pack. Lift with the legs. Apply one shoulder strap and then the other.

Tip: Don't sling the backpack onto one shoulder

Back Pack Safety America and your Doctor of Chiropractic have contributed this information for your child’s better health. www.backpacksafe.com