Backpacks that are too heavy can cause a lot of problems for kids, like back and shoulder pain, and poor posture.

While we wait for solutions like digital textbooks to become widespread, there are things you can do to help prevent injury.

• the American Chiropractic Association recommends a backpack weigh no more than 10 percent of a child’s weight.
• The correct size: never wider or longer than your child’s torso and never hanging more than 4 inches below the waist
• Padded back and shoulder straps
• Multiple compartments to better distribute the weight

Remember: A roomy backpack may seem like a good idea, but the more space there is to fill, the more likely your child will fill it. Make sure your child uses both straps when carrying the backpack. Using one strap shifts the weight to one side and causes muscle pain and posture problems.

What About Backpacks on Wheels? Rolling backpacks should be used “cautiously and on a limited basis by only those students who are not physically able to carry a backpack,” the ACA website reads. The reason? They clutter school corridors, replacing a potential back injury hazard with a tripping hazard.

Help your child determine what is necessary to carry. If it’s not essential, leave it at home and, pick up that pack from time to time.

For more info visit: https://www.acatoday.org/

The post Back to School: Backpack Safety for Kids appeared first on Horizon at Sand Point.

Kitterman Woods Apartments would like everyone to enjoy their Halloween.  

Here are some safety tips with everyone in mind.

Walk Safely

Cross at street corners, use crosswalks.

Look both ways when crossing and continue to pay attention as you cross.

Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.

Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.

Watch out for cars that are turning or backing up.  Never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

Be Creative but Keep Costume’s Safe

Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers.

Be sure that your costume doesn’t obstruct you view.

Carry glow sticks or flashlights so that you are visible to drivers.

Make sure your costume fits, to prevent trips and falls.

Drive Extra Safe

Drive slow.  Stay alert in neighborhoods.

Look out for kids at intersections, medians, curbs, and along the side of the roads.

Pay attention when entering and exiting driveways.

Don’t get distracted inside your car.  Concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

Pet Safety

Dogs and cats, should be kept indoors to protect them from the tricks and treats of the ghosts and goblins.

Walk the dog early on Halloween night and hold the leash firmly.

Masks may startle dogs and they can get overwhelmed by shrieking children.

When opening the door for trick or treaters, be very careful your cat or dog does not dart outside.  Pets may escape and get lost, be sure your pet is wearing proper I.D.

For additional tips visit: https://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/

Happy Halloween!!!

The post Safety First appeared first on Horizon at Sand Point.