I I . S A F E T Y
Positioning belts should be installed as detailed in this manual. See IV. “Comfort Adjustments.” Once installed, the belt should be placed across the pelvis as determined by your healthcare provider. Anchor points of the posi- tioning belts should be located so that a projected
WARNING! If you require a positioning belt to safely operate your wheelchair, make sure it is fastened securely in order to reduce the possibility of a fall from the wheelchair.
WARNING! The positioning belt is not designed for use as a seat belt in a motor vehicle. Nor is your wheelchair suitable for use as a seat in any vehicle. Anyone traveling in a vehicle should be properly belted into seats approved by the vehicle manufacturer.
Removable Parts
WARNING! Do not attempt to lift or move a wheelchair by any of its removable parts, including the armrests, seat, and front riggings. Do not attempt to pick up the wheelchair while the seat is occupied. Pride recommends use of only solid,
Reaching and Bending
Never reach, lean, or bend while driving your wheelchair. If it is absolutely necessary to reach, lean, or bend while seated on your wheelchair, it is important to maintain a stable center of gravity and keep the wheelchair from tipping. Pride recommends that the wheelchair user determine his/her personal limitations and practice bending and reaching in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional.
WARNING! Do not bend, lean, or reach for objects if you have to pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees or if you have to reach over the back of the seat. Movements such as these may change your center of gravity and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. This may cause your wheelchair to tip.
WARNING! Keep your hands away from the tires when driving. Be aware that loose fitting clothing can become caught in drive tires.
Transfers
Transferring onto and off of your wheelchair requires a good sense of balance and agility. It is dangerous to transfer on your own. Always have an attendant or healthcare professional present while learning to prop- erly transfer yourself. To avoid a fall, be aware that there is a point during every transfer when the wheelchair is not below you.
To eliminate the possibility of injury, Pride recommends that you or a trained attendant perform the following tasks before attempting a transfer:
Turn both caster wheels toward the transfer destination
to improve wheelchair stability during transfer.
Ensure both wheel locks on your wheelchair are engaged. See III. “Your Wheelchair.”
NOTE: This will not keep your wheelchair from sliding away from you or tipping.
If necessary, remove or flip up one or both armrests.
See IV. “Comfort Adjustments.” | Figure 4. Ideal Transfer Position |
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