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To descend down over an obstacle (e.g. driving down from the kerb into the street), first tilt the
wheelchair up onto the rear wheels, then push on and let the wheelchair down over the edge of the
obstacle on two wheels (see diagram, above right).
Should you have to be carried over three steps or more, request the assistance of at least two able-
bodied persons. Those assisting should only take hold of solid parts of the frame. They should
under no circumstances take hold of any moving parts, such as the rear wheels or front castors (see
diagram, left).
Proceed with great caution should you wish to overcome an obstacle alone. You should be aware of
the tendency of the wheelchair to tip over backwards if, as the rear wheels contact the edge of the
obstacle, you attempt to surmount it by pushing down harder on the handring (see diagram, above
right).
Never drive your wheelchair onto an escalator.
4.4.
Braking with the pressure brakes
When using the wheelchair in situations where increased stability is particularly important, always
remember to apply the brakes (see diagram). This applies, for example, when standing up, sliding
over into your wheelchair or when you want to transfer from the wheelchair into another seat. For
safety reasons, it is particularly important to note that, when transferring, even if the rear wheels are
locked by the brakes, the wheelchair can easily slip sideways if it is not carrying a load.
Keep in mind that insufficient tire pressure or heavily worn tire tread has a detrimental effect on
braking efficiency.
