15
After driving through a puddle, keep in mind that wet tires reduce braking efficiency as water on
the surface of the tires acts as a lubricant.
4.5.
Picking up objects from the wheelchair
Always remember that picking up objects from the wheelchair will alter your center of gravity and
effect stability. This can cause the wheelchair to tip over, either backwards (see diagram, left),
sideways or forwards. In the latter case, to decrease the likelihood of tipping forwards, enlarge the
wheelbase by pointing the castors as if the wheelchair were moving backwards (see diagram, right).
It is also advisable to draw as near as possible to the object before attempting to pick it up.
4.6. Detachable
components
You will be pleased to know that your wheelchair is designed to be fully collapsable and is built
with several detachable components to guarantee the lowest possible packing volume and weight.
Certain movements involved in folding down the backrest are, by their very nature, potentially
harmful. Please take care not to trap any clothing or parts of the body in the joints of the wheelchair
as your are folding down the backrest. You should only resume your seat in the wheelchair once it
has been fully unfolded and reassembled with all detachable components (e.g. rear wheels and
castors) once again securely fixed in place. Always make sure beyond any doubt that the rear
wheels have been securely reattached, and cannot work loose while the wheelchair is moving (see
diagram).
