6
General Guidelines
MANDATORY! Do not operate your new power chair for the first time without completely
reading and understanding this owner’s manual.
Your power chair is a state-of-the-art life-enhancement device designed to increase
mobility. FeatherChair provides an extensive variety of products to best fit the individual needs of the
power chair user. Please be aware that the final selection and purchasing decision regarding the type
of power chair to be used is the responsibility of the power chair user, who is capable of making such
a decision, and his/her healthcare professional (i.e., medical doctor, physical therapist, etc.).
The contents of this manual are based on the expectation that a mobility device expert has properly
fitted the power chair to the user and has assisted the prescribing healthcare professional and/or the
authorized provider in the instruction process for the use of the product.
There are certain situations, including some medical conditions, where the power chair user will need
to practice operating the power chair in the presence of a trained attendant. A trained attendant can be
defined as a family member or care professional specially trained in assisting a power chair user in
various daily living activities.
As you begin using your power chair during daily activities, you will probably encounter situations in which
you will need some practice. Simply take your time and you will soon be in full and confident control as you
maneuver through doorways, on and off of lifts, up and down ramps, and over moderate terrain.
Below are some precautions, tips, and other safety considerations that will help you become
accustomed to operating your power chair safely.
Pre-Ride Safety Check
Get to know the feel of your power chair and its capabilities. FeatherChair recommends that you
perform a safety check before each use to make sure your power chair operates smoothly and safely.
Perform the following inspections prior to using your power chair:
■
Check for proper tire inflation. Maintain but do not exceed the psi/bar/kPa air pressure rating
indicated on each tire if equipped with pneumatic tires.
■
Check all electrical connections. Make sure they are tight and not corroded.
■
Check all controller connections to the power base. Make sure they are secured
properly.
■
Check the brakes. See
“Care and Maintenance.”
■
Check battery charge. See
“Batteries and Charging.”
■
Ensure the manual freewheel levers are in drive mode before sitting on the power chair.
NOTE: If you discover a problem, contact your authorized provider for assistance.
