Invacare V18RLR Owners Manual - Page 15

4 SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you MUST maintain proper balance at all times. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of gravity. Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat/chest positioning straps for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your weight. DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests. Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line 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 healthcare professional before attempting active use of the wheelchair. Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, or bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance. Reaching, Leaning and Bending Forward 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. Position the front casters so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage wheel locks. FIGURE 1 Unfolding and Folding Wheelchair Part No. 1148116 15 Invacare® Veranda™Wheelchair