Invacare XtraTM 1026793 - Manual (Page 16)

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Xtra™ 16 Part No 1026793
SECTION 2—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
ƽ 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 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, the 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.
DO NOT climb, go up, or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.
Invacare strongly recommends proceeding down ramps or slopes slowly to avoid
hard braking or sudden stops.
DO NOT leave elevating legrests in the fully extended position when proceeding
down ramps or slopes.
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.