Section 2-Safety/Handling Of Wheelchairs; Safety/Handling Of Wheelchairs; Stability And Balance - Invacare Lightweight Operation And Maintenance Manual

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF
WHEELCHAIRS

Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs

Safety and handling of the wheelchair require 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
heeded. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair user and
assistant with safety as the most important consideration for all.

Stability 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 belt 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, belt MUST
be replaced immediately.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you MUST maintain proper
balance at all times. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and stable
during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the
center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat/chest positioning straps for additional
safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests.
Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward.
This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
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