Staying Safe When Using Your Wheelchair
Safe Wheelchair Use Outdoors
You may be new to wheelchair use or you may be a pro! Either way, it is important to know some basic rules about safe wheelchair use when you are outdoors. If you are assisting someone in a wheelchair then one of the best ways to consider the safest and most comfortable way to use manual and power wheelchairs is to be sensitive to the environment as well as the mechanical bits of the wheelchair.
Remember when you are out and about that you need to be visible. Consider clothing that is bright and noticeable
Consider appropriate weather wear that is comfortable
When the person is sitting comfortably in the chair use the manufacturer's seat belt or install one that suits the wheelchair design as well as the wheelchair users safety needs.
Keep all four wheels on the ground.
Keep hands clear of wheel spokes when maneuvering.
Use appropriate gloves if you are maneuvering yourself or assisting someone in a wheelchair.
Plan your route as you go along. Scan the environment for gradients, surface, obstacles etc.
For a smooth ride avoid surfaces that will jolt the foot pedals or the footplate. You do not want to be thrown out of the chair!
Beware of steep gradients. Know your limitations as well as your strength. If you are assisting a wheelchair user it may be best to proceed in reverse in the steepest parts of any outdoor outing.
Use the breaks frequently to control speed. Never build up too much speed.
When going up a steep gradient it is safest to proceed backwards. It gives you more control. If you go forwards you may find the front wheels lifting of the surface because of the distribution of weight in the wheelchair.
In urban areas use curb cuts, curbs drops to move into the road. If they are not available use people's driveways.
Cross the road in places that give you and other road users maximum of visibility. Wheelchairs are not always the most speedy forms of transportation so you need time for a comfortable ride across roads.
