Section 3-Safety/Handling Of Wheelchairs; Stability And Balance - Invacare Pronto M91 Owner's Manual

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF
WHEELCHAIRS
"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 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 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. 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.
DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.
Invacare strongly recommends proceeding down ramps or slopes at half speed or
slower and to avoid hard braking or sudden stops.
DO NOT leave elevating legrests in the fully extended position when proceeding
down ramps or slopes.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending or
bending forward, it is important to use the casters as a tool to maintain stability and
balance.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.
Be aware that carrying heavy objects on your lap while occupying the wheelchair
may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury
to the user, damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property.
This wheelchair has been designed to accommodate one individual. If more than
one individual occupies the wheelchair this may adversely affect the stability of the
wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user and passenger and damage
to the wheelchair and surrounding property.
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Pronto® M91™ with SureStep® Part No 1141450