Invacare CRFTI Owners Manual - Page 14

SECTION 2-SAFE HANDLING ƽ WARNING 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. The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchair's stability. Any change to one or any combination of the five may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. Use EXTREME caution when using a new seating position. The addition of anti-tippers may be required. NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1. Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health‐care professional before attempting active use of wheelchair. Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance. • Lengthening the wheelbase will increase the stability and maintain standard maneuverability of wheelchair. • Shortening the wheelbase will decrease the stability, increase the maneuverability and distribute additional weight onto the rear wheels. Center of Gravity Lengthening the Wheelbase Rear of Wheelchair Unoccupied Occupied FIGURE 2.1 Stability and Balance Shortening the Wheelbase Coping with Everyday Obstacles Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability and balance. Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 14 Part No 1134872