3 SAFETY
Coping With Everyday Obstacles
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability and balance.
Tipping
WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the wheelchair.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use one of the following methods to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes
WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the wheelchair.
Place foot on the step tube and begin to tilt the wheelchair toward you. Apply a continuous downward motion until the balance point is achieved and the front casters clear the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the front of the wheelchair in one continuous movement onto the sidewalk. Push the wheelchair forward until the rear wheels roll up and over the curb.
Step Tube
FIGURE 3 Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes
Invacare® Jymni™ Pediatric Series Wheelchair | 22 | Part No 1100868 |