SAFETY PRECAUTIONS/SAFE OPERATION
IMPORTANT WARNING
The day-to-day activities and the more advanced Powerchair techniques depend, on your physical
capabilities and your own specific circumstances. Our recommendations may occasionally differ from those
of your Therapeutic Adviser or Physician, as they have a better understanding of your abilities. Where this
is the case, you MUST FOLLOW THEIR advice, they are better placed to tell you what is suitable for you
and what is not.
DO NOT use your Powerchair when your driving ability is impaired by medication.
Your Powerchair operating system may be influenced by electromagnetic fields such as signals emitted by portable
telephones and other similar devices. It is strongly recommended that you switch off your Powerchair whilst in the
vicinity of such devices. If your Powerchair is effected by these signals, immediately switch off the power by depressing
the On/Off switch.
CAUTION
Always steer clear of obstacles where possible, ensure your clothing and hands are kept clear of all moving
parts, ask for assistance when descending or ascending steep gradients. Never attempt to negotiate stairs.
Never use an escalator to move a Powerchair between floors. Due to both the weight of a Powerchair and
its occupant it is not advisable to attempt to be assisted up and down stairs whilst the Powerchair is
occupied.
Braking of your Powerchair is dependent on electromagnetic motor brakes. When these are disengaged by
declutching the motor gear box drive system, the chair is in FREEWHEEL MODE, this mode is for EMERGENCY
USE only and motor gear boxes should remain engaged at all other times.
To avoid the Powerchair freewheeling, special care must be taken to either apply parking brakes where fitted or
re-engage motor brakes.
Safety Indoors
When using your Powerchair indoors always consider the following potential hazards:
Beware of the fact that many of the premises where you are likely to use your Powerchair may not have
been designed with this consideration in mind. You should therefore have an awareness for safety when
encountering the likes of narrow doorways, steps, high surfaces, protruding wall fittings and every day
household items such as children’s toys, electrical appliances etc. Take extra care in kitchen environments.
Consider the fire evacuation procedures for buildings you may be entering. Never put yourself at risk and
ensure that you can be easily evacuated in the event of an emergency.
NOTE
Powerchairs drive very quietly, generally travel faster than the average walking pace and are low to the ground.
Always consider these factors when using your Powered Wheelchair.
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