12
CENTER OF GRAVITY (CG)
!
WARNING
The point where a power wheelchair will tip forward, back, or to
the side depends on its center of gravity and stability. The center
of gravity is affected by:
1. The seat height and seat angle.
2. A change in your body position, posture or
weight distribution.
3. Using the wheelchair on a ramp or slope.
4. The use of a back pack or other options, and the amount of
added weight.
5. Drive wheel positioning.
!
WARNING
• Elevating, tilting and legrest adjustments can affect the
wheelchair centre of gravity. Under certain conditions this
might cause instability that could lead to unintentional tipping
causing personal injury to the user and/or the people
nearby.
• Stopping distances on slopes can be significantly longer than
on level ground.
ADJUSTING
CG
ALWAYS consult a professional if your Alltrack needs adjusting.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FALL OR TIP-OVER
Whenever a condition exists that may change the CG:
• Reduce speed, proceed cautiously and when in doubt,
ALWAYS have someone help you.
• Consult a profession to have your Alltrack serviced.
TRANSFERS
!
WARNING
It is dangerous to transfer on your own. It requires good bal ance
and agility. Be aware that there is a point during every trans fer
when the wheelchair seat is not below you. To prevent a fall:
1. ALWAYS turn off power before you transfer to or from your
wheelchair. If you leave the power on, you may touch the
joystick and cause your wheelchair to move when you do not
expect it.
2. Make sure freewheel release levers are engaged. This keeps
the power wheelchair from moving when you transfer.
3. Work with your health care professional to learn
safe methods.
4. Learn how to position your body and how to support yourself
during a transfer. (See Fig.1 below for recommended transfer
position).
5. Have someone help you until you are sure you can safely
transfer on your own.
6. Move your wheelchair as close as you can to the seat you
are transferring to. If possible, use a transfer board.
7. Rotate the front casters until they are as far forward
as possible.
8. Be careful of the footrests. If you can, remove or swing them
out of the way.
9. NEVER stand on foot platform/footplate(s) when you
transfer. Doing so may damage them or cause your
wheelchair to tip.
10. Make sure your feet do not get hooked on or caught in the
space between the footplates.
11. Make sure armrests do not interfere.
12. Transfer as far back onto the seat surface as you can. This will
reduce the risk that you will miss the seat or fall.
Figure 1.
Use caution when transferring to
and from your wheelchair.
Summary of Contents for ALLTRACK M3 Series
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