Invacare T6 manual Tipping Curbs

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

Tipping

WARNING

DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.

DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant.

When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are clear of all wheels and/or pinch points. Apply a continuous motion until the balance point is achieved. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution. Turn the wheelchair in the desired direction if necessary. Slowly lower the wheelchair in one continuous movement.

Tipping - Curbs

WARNING

Invacare does not recommend that sport wheelchairs be used where traversing curbs present an obstacle. Possible injury to occupant and/or assistant(s) can occur. Transfer to an everyday use wheelchair is recommended if any such obstacles may be encountered.

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.3 on page 18.

After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use the following method to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.

Turn the anti-tippers, if equipped, so the wheels are facing UP. Unless the first assistant has exceptional upper body strength, it is recommended that two assistants perform this operation. The second assistant should be positioned at the front of the wheelchair lifting upward on a non-removable (non-detachable) part of the wheelchair frame when lifting the wheelchair and stabilising the wheelchair when the wheelchair is being lowered to the ground.

The first assistant should stand on the sidewalk and turn the wheelchair so that the rear wheels are against the curb. The wheelchair should be tilted back to the balance point and, in one continuous upward movement, the rear wheels should be pulled up and over the curb. DO NOT return the front casters to the ground until the wheelchair has been pulled backward far enough for the front casters to clear the edge of the curb.

Part No 1148078 17 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs