Safety Tips for Power Wheelchairs

Safety Tips for Power Wheelchairs

For those with difficulty getting around, a power wheelchair can be their most important piece of medical eqpt. For a smooth transition into using a power wheelchair, it’s good to familiarize yourself with a few basic safety precautions. You should start by familiarizing yourself with your new chair and all the features it has to offer.

One of the best ways to start is by reading your owner’s manual. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the safe operation of your new chair. Also learn how to adjust it to make it comfortable and fit your needs the best.

Get into the habit of always turning off the power control when the chair is not in use. The power should also be off when you are transferring in and out of the chair. The power should also be off when re-charging the battery.

If your power chair comes with a seat belt, always use it. The seat belt will prevent you from accidentally falling off the seat. Keep the battery fully charged so the chair is always ready to use. You may want to charge it every night.

After learning to maneuver your chair around inside your home, you can have greater mobility by using it outdoors as well. Extra precautions need to be taken to avoid falls, especially if there are any uneven places nearby. Avoid heavy traffic areas and make sure others can see you by using a flag. Keep your chair in good condition by having repairs performed promptly.