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11:1 General
11:2 Driving technique, kerbs and raised thresholds: up
User, driving up forwards:
This method is recommended only
for experienced wheelchair users.
-
Ensure that the anti-tips are
turned upwards.
-
Drive forward to the edge of
the kerb/threshold.
-
Balance the wheelchair
on its rear wheels so that
the castor wheels lift high
enough to come up on the
pavement. Take a firm hold
of the handrims while at the
same time leaning forwards
with your upper body.
Be sure to turn the anti-
tips back to the down
position.
Care giver, driving up forwards:
-
Ensure that the anti-tips are
turned upwards.
-
Tilt the wheelchair, if neces-
sary with help from the tilter,
so that the castor wheels
come up on the pavement.
-
Lift by the push handles to
help the rear wheels up.
Be sure to turn the anti-tips
back to the down position.
11 Driving technique, manoeuvring
Parking: Increase the overall sup-
port base of the wheelchair by
reversing for about 10 cm, thereby
ensuring the castor wheels swing
forwards.
If the user is left alone in the
wheelchair, ensure that the brakes
are applied and that the anti-tip is
swung down.
User, driving up backwards:
This technique only works if there
is a low kerb/threshold, relative to
the installed height of the foot-
rests.
-
Ensure that the anti-tips are
turned upwards.
-
Reverse to the edge of the
kerb/threshold.
-
Take a firm hold of the
handrims while at the same
time leaning forwards.
Be sure to turn the anti-tips
back to the down position.