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6 Usage
6.1 Safety and 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 maneuvering
the wheelchair.
Users and attendants must be aware that the handling
and maneuverability characteristics of the wheelchair
are inherently different based on the drive wheel
location. Handling and maneuverability differences
will be most noticeable when traveling down declines
(Example: ramps and slopes) or over obstacles and
rough terrain as this may shift the users center of
mass forward resulting in decreased stability. ALWAYS
reduce speed and wear the seat positioning strap
when driving under these conditions.
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 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.
Invacare strongly recommends that initial use of
wheelchairs be supervised by an assistant.
DANGER!
Risk of Death, Serious Injury, or Damage
Misuse of the wheelchair may cause
component failure and/or the wheelchair
to start smoking, sparking, or burning.
Death, serious injury, or damage may
occur due to fire.
-DO NOT use the wheelchair other than its
intended purpose. If the wheelchair starts
smoking, sparking, or burning, discontinue
using the wheelchair and seek service
IMMEDIATELY.
60127229-A
DANGER!
Risk of Death or Serious Injury
Not wearing your seat positioning strap could
result in death or serious injury.
-ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.
Your seat positioning strap helps reduce the
possibility of a fall from the wheelchair. 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.
WARNING!
Risk of Injury, Damage or Death
Use of the wheelchair while judgement or
ability is impaired may result in injury,
damage or death.
-DO NOT operate the wheelchair under
the influence of alcohol, medications or
other substances that impair judgement
or function.
-Changing medications may affect your
ability to operate the wheelchair. Discuss the
impact on your ability to operate the
wheelchair with a health care professional
when changing medications.
-DO NOT operate the wheelchair under
conditions where judgement or function may
be impaired. This may include but is not
limited to lack of sleep or poor sight.
-Always be aware of your surroundings.
WARNING!
Risk of Injury, Damage or Death
Misuse of wheelchair may result in injury,
damage or death.
-Use care when operating the wheelchair on
roads, streets or other roadways.
-Use care when operating the wheelchair
when vision is impaired by poor lighting such
as unlit rooms, during the night or similar
situations.
-ALWAYS be aware of motor vehicles and
your surroundings.
Invacare® AVIVA® Storm RX
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