Section 2-Safe Handling; Stability And Balance - Invacare CROSSFIRE T6 Owners Operating & Maintenance Manual

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
"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
manoeuvering 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 recognises 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.

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 Top End 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, seat
positioning strap MUST be replaced 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.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times
maintain proper balance. 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 positioning straps for additional safety
while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than stability will allow. Make
sure 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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Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs Part No 1148078