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2. SAFETY
2.1 Doorways
The safest way to operate the chair is on level floors that are free of obstacles.
Whenever possible use a ramp to enter or exit a facility. Keeping your hands
on the push rims will allow you to maintain maximum balance. Do not try to
force yourself over an obstruction by propulsion and never use the sides of a
doorway to pull yourself through a passageway.
2.2 Leaning
Do not lean over the side of your wheelchair since such an action may cause
you to lose balance and fall. (See Figure 2.1)
2.3 Navigating Inclines
Never turn on a hill due to the danger of tipping.
When assisting, go straight up a slope. If user needs to go down midway,
walk backwards until user is on level ground. (See Figures 2.2 and 2.3)
Avoid stopping on an incline; it can potentially cause you to lose control of
the chair.
Do not use the brakes to slow down or stop the wheelchair; this could cause
it to seize up, causing you to lose control or fall out of the chair.
Whenever possible, utilize help from an assistant/attendant while navigating
inclines.
2.4 Curbs
Whenever possible get help from an assistant/attendant (if you have
assistance make sure that your chair is equipped with push handles).
Avoid hard impacts when descending a curb. A hard impact could adversely
affect the chair.
Never try to scale or descend curbs that exceed a normal height. (30-50cm)
Always be careful when climbing curbs and never move up or down a
in reverse without an assistant.
2.5 Stairs
Always use two or more assistants.
Never go down steps forwards.
Never use an escalator for transport, use an elevator.
2.6 Streets
Always use extreme caution when crossing streets. Reflective tape on the
chair and/or your clothing will make you more visible to drivers.
Avoid potholes and rough terrain that might cause the casters to become
stuck.(See Figure 2.4)
2.7 General
Always make sure BOTH brakes are applied before getting in or out of the
chair.
Never stand on the footplates when getting in or out of the chair.
Never carry more than one passenger. Karma wheelchairs are limited to
one user.
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curb
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