Bulletproof inserts found in cardboard packaging in the United States
In the wake of increased concerns about school safety, brands are introducing backpacks and binders with built-in ballistic protection, priced around 200 euros. This trend is being promoted by some influencers as a response to school shootings.
These backpacks are designed to offer bullet resistance, with effectiveness depending on the ballistic rating of the protective inserts used. Generally, such ballistic backpacks are designed to stop or reduce penetration of handgun bullets, but may require higher-grade inserts or plates to effectively resist rifle rounds. The exact effectiveness depends on the materials and certification levels used in these products.
One influencer, in a social media video that received millions of views, demonstrated a bulletproof plate that can be inserted into a backpack. She stated that she was working with a brand to help people feel less helpless in the face of school shootings.
However, the effectiveness of backpacks with ballistic protection against assault rifle bullets remains questionable. It's important to note that while these backpacks can stop handgun fire, they may not provide the same level of protection against more powerful weapons.
Meanwhile, some schools are equipping themselves with deployable armored barriers for classrooms in case of intrusion. This is another measure aimed at enhancing school safety.
The recent shooting in Minnesota during back-to-school week resulted in 2 deaths and 14 injuries, adding to the 18 lives lost and 74 injuries sustained in school shootings this year.
As the number of school and university shootings in the US reaches 44 since the start of the year, others are relying on artificial intelligence to detect the shape of a weapon and sound the alarm.
This shift towards safety measures comes as a response to a 23-year-old man who opened fire on students at a school, underscoring the need for increased safety measures in educational institutions.
