Invacare 1171880 user manual Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs, Stability and Balance

4 SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

4 Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs

4.1Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs

“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in maneuvering around the frequently encountered architectural barriers.

Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are discussed on the following pages have been used successfully by many.

Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that they may encounter, however, ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST be followed. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.

4.2Stability and Balance

￿ WARNING

ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a positioning strap only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, strap MUST be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

DO NOT attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.

ALWAYS check hand grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose and/or worn, replace IMMEDIATELY.

Anti-tippers MUST be attached at all times. Inasmuch as the anti-tippers are an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the anti-tippers), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the anti-tippers as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.

DO NOT climb, go up, or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.

Part No 1171880 17 Invacare®Top End Reveal™Wheelchair