Some of these children are carrying nearly 40 pounds of books and other things in their packs.
New research reveals an alarming danger associated with childhood backpack use.
The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that 4,928 emergency room visits each year result from injuries related to book bags and back carriers. The primary cause stems from improper packing, lifting and carrying by children wearing and using the packs. The program contains an 8-minute backpack safety video and packet of backpack safety posters. A certified injury prevention specialist, Dr. Arnsdorff likens the spinal column damage some children have suffered because of the misused backpacks to industrial accidents. We need to do the same thing in the schools that we do in the factories, warehouses and offices and that s have a comprehensive educational program that brings together all the different elements of potential risks and solutions.