Safety Tips for Power Wheelchair Users
Power wheelchair safety tips are important if you want to make sure that your mobility device is working properly and safely. Although most power wheelchairs are designed to be safe and comfortable, they still have a few things in common with other wheelchairs. The first of these common items is that they can be dangerous if they malfunction or if the proper safety measures aren’t followed. This article will give you some tips on how to make sure that you and your power wheelchair are both safe and happy.
There are several power wheelchair safety tips to keep in mind. The first of these tips is to avoid any type of motorized travel that includes driving. Some travel by way of gas, which can be risky. If you use your power wheelchair to travel, you should ensure that you can stop the power wheelchair with either your hands or a safety switch.
Power Wheelchair Safety Around Vehicles
To avoid dangerous maneuverings around vehicles, power wheelchair safety includes steering clear of small obstructions. Small objects, like bugs or trash, can be extremely difficult for a wheelchair to see and can prevent you from making the right turns. If you need to drive, always signal to pedestrians and allow them to pass. Always make sure that you can see what’s going on behind you, especially when it comes to street signs. If you need assistance, always pull over and let others pass. Access 4 Mobility has a wide range of power wheelchairs to select from.
One of the most dangerous things for a power wheelchair to do would be to drive on a wet surface. Wet surfaces can easily warp a power wheelchair, so make sure you take the necessary steps to maintain its stability. You can add an anti-warp coating to your power wheelchair frame to protect against constant friction and wear.
If you use your power wheelchair on uneven or sloping ground, always make sure that you place your wheelchair’s tires on a level. To help prevent slipping on a steep slope, you should also add an extra set of wheels to the back of your wheelchair. Before taking off into a sloped area, double-check to make sure that your wheelchair tires are inflated properly. If they are not, make sure you fill them up with air before beginning your walk.
Power Wheelchair Regular Inspection & Maintenance
Power wheelchairs should also have breaks installed in case of an emergency. Most power wheelchairs come with a built-in brake system, but you can also buy one separately. You should also make sure that your wheelchair’s breaks are in good working order. Power wheelchair users should avoid walking on carpet or mats that may cause their wheelchair to slip or skid.
As you can see, power wheelchairs can be incredibly handy tools, but they can also be dangerous if used incorrectly. If you are going to use a power wheelchair, you should be especially careful to avoid most of the common power wheelchair safety tips. By following these tips, you can ensure that your wheelchair is comfortable and safe to use and that you can avoid most major wheelchair injury accidents. If you are concerned about using a power wheelchair, talk to a trained assistant at your local hospital or medical facility.
Safety Tips While Traveling
In the meantime, there are some things that you can do to minimize your risk of a wheelchair mishap. For example, if you must travel, you should never ride in an automobile that does not have a passenger seat. Also, keep your wheelchair in good condition by cleaning and storing it when needed. Finally, always stick to the guidelines set forth by your doctor or warranty company, so that you can use your wheelchair safely and efficiently. Remember that the most important power wheelchair safety tip is to take every precaution possible. By following these power wheelchair safety tips, you will be much safer and better able to take yourself and others in a wheelchair safely.
