Everest & Jennings Everest Jennings, Owner'S Manual

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SAFETY AND HANDLING GUIDE
STABILITY AND BALANCE
Proper balance is the key to maintaining stability of your wheelchair. Your wheelchair has been designed and engineered to maintain balance during
normal daily activity. However, it is possible to tip the wheelchair over if used improperly or if you move beyond the center of gravity. Everest & Jen-
nings strongly recommends the use of a positioning belt to maintain proper weight distribution. It is very important that you learn the characteristics
of your wheelchair as well as learn safe methods to perform the daily activities basic to your lifestyle. Your healthcare professional should assist you
in developing the skills and proper techniques to perform all activities safely.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN REACHING OR BENDING
Although it is not recommended, you may fi nd it occasionally necessary to
lean or reach while sitting in your wheelchair. Consult with your healthcare professional for assistance in developing your personal safe reaching or
moving techniques suited to your abilities and restrictions.
WARNINGS:
• Always have the front casters turned to the front to provide stability while reaching. If in doubt, ask for assistance or use a
device that will extend your reach without requiring you to shift your weight.
• DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you must move forward in the seat or if you must reach down between your knees.
• DO NOT shift your weight in the direction you are reaching. This could cause the wheelchair to tip, resulting in injuries.
WARNINGS:
• DO NOT engage the wheel locks. If your weight shifts while reaching, it is better to roll backwards than to tip over.
• DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery, as wheelchair could tip.
Reaching / Bending Forward or Sideward:
(1) Maneuver the wheelchair as close as possible to the object you wish to reach.
(2) Rotate both front casters fully forward.
(3) Engage both wheel locks.
Reaching / Bending Backward:
(1) Maneuver the wheelchair as close as possible to the object.
(2) Rotate both front casters fully forward.
(3) Reach only as far as your arm will extend without changing your sitting position.
If in doubt, reposition the wheelchair or ask for assistance.