Bulletproof backpacks for U.S. schoolchildren.

[AtomicKitten]

Bulletproof Backpack For US Schools
http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30200-1280130,00.html?f=rss



Thursday August 16, 2007
A bulletproof backpack is being sold to parents in the US to protect their children against another Columbine-type attack.

A Massachusetts company says its backpack will help protect children from guns.

Tests showed the $175 (£88) pack could also resist knives.

Creators Joe Currant and Mike Pelonzi, who are both parents, said the idea for My Child's Pack was born out of the need to keep their kids safe in school.

"There is no guarantee in life for anything. This product is a tool." said Mr Pelonzi.
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The duo spent almost a decade coming up with the backpack and hope that it will help prevent tragedies like the Columbine school massacre of 1999.

The backpack has the same certification as a police vest but weighs less than a twentieth of it, said Mr Curran.

The 20oz pack contains a ballistic panel able to stop even rifle bullets, according the company MJ Safety Solutions.

The inventors claim the backpacks can be used to protect against 97% of the bullets used.

"Just like bicycle helmets or smoke detectors... everyday products to keep kids safe," said Mr Pelonzi.

[slackmaster]

1. That's right up there with briefcase parachutes in case of another 9/11

Wouldn't it make more sense to focus on identifying people with major mental health problems as early as possible?

[Fleshdancer]

2. because backpacks just aren't heavy enough

My child had a greater chance of being hurt in an automobile accident than getting shot in the back at school. This product just encourages irrational fear IMO.

[Hydra]

3. I like this idea

Not just for the kids(but if I had a kid, they'd be packing a firearm too).

This is an easy way for me to get a bullet shield that might work on those coming riot police. I doubt they'll be using rubber bullets or gel rounds.

[hobbit709]

4. So the backpack is on the floor next to your desk

A loon with gun comes in and says"Nobody move"
You reach down to grab your bulletproof backpack.
Guess what happens next.

[EstimatedProphet]

5. This is probably an omen

This may mean that the Iran invasion will be oming soon, using schoolkids as troops. I wouldn't put it past them at all.

[qdemn7]

6. Rfile Bullets??? NOT!!

The 20oz pack contains a ballistic panel able to stop even rifle bullets, according the company MJ Safety Solutions.

I'd say bullshit on this one, UNLESS they are talking about .22 ammo or pistol caliber ammo, fired from a rifle. The website says MJ SAFETY SOLUTIONS PANEL is independently tested to NIJ Level II Protection standards. So that's 22 layers of Kevlar, and it's NOT the highest rating. So their claim is just marketing FUD. For anyone interested in the facts of different levels of body armor see Ballistic Resistance of Police Body Armor NIJ Standard 0101.03.

[babylonsister]

7. What a world we live in. So so sad. nt

[David__77]

8. A good idea.

The price is reasonable.

[Vidar]

9. That will keep the sandwiches & porn stored in the backpack safe.