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Health Tip: Choosing a Backpack

(HealthDay News) -- Along with pens, paper and notebooks, for many youngsters, a backpack is a back-to-school necessity.

The U.S. National Safety Council offers these safety guidelines for selecting a backpack:

  • Look for features that offer better support, comfort and safety.

  • Choose a backpack with padding in the back to minimize pressure.

  • Opt for a backpack that has belts around the hip and chest to more evenly distribute the contents.

  • A backpack with lots of compartments is better, as it also helps evenly distribute the weight of school supplies.

  • Look for compression straps at the bottom or side of the backpack to bring the contents closer to the back.

  • Look for reflective material so your child is easier to see if walking in the dark.

Date Last Reviewed: 8/24/2009
Date Last Modified: 8/24/2009