Invacare 1171880 user manual Tipping Curbs

4 SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Also, be aware of any removable (detachable) parts. These MUST NEVER be used to move the wheelchair or as lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently released, resulting in possible injury to the user and/or assistant(s).

When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before attempting it alone.

4.5 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.

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 stabilizing 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 1171880 21 Invacare®Top End Reveal™Wheelchair