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8. Stationary Obstacles: (Steps, Curbs, Etc.)
Proceed with extreme caution when driving near raised surfaces, unprotected
ledges, and/or drop-offs (curbs, porches, stairs, escalators, lifts etc). Always
approach an obstacle so both front wheels touch that obstacle together. Never
attempt to climb a curb or obstacle at an angle.
9. Climbing or Descending an Incline
When climbing an incline, try to keep your power chair moving; however do not use
excessive speed. If you must stop, start up again slowly and then accelerate cautiously.
If at anytime you feel uncomfortable, reduce your acceleration rate. When driving
down an incline, set your power chair to the slowest speed setting and drive in the
forward direction only. If your power chair starts to move down the incline faster than
you anticipated or desired, allow it to come to a complete stop by releasing the
joystick. Once the chair has stopped push the joystick forward slightly to ensure a
safely controlled descent. The following advice is recommended for your safety:
* Do not drive at an angle up or down the face of the incline. Drive your power chair
straight up or down the incline. This greatly reduces the possibility of tipping the
chair over. · Avoid potentially hazardous inclines e.g. areas covered with snow, ice,
mud, cut grass, or wet leaves.
* Avoid sudden stops and starts
* When on any sort of an incline or decline, never place the power chair in freewheel
mode while seated on it or standing next to it.
* Never attempt to travel backwards down an incline.
10. Maximum Recommended Incline
Most public access ramps have a maximum gradient 1 in 14 (AS1428.1). Therefore,
Observer Mobility recommends that the maximum slope of an incline you attempt to