It is very important to be safe when using wheelchair to avoid further injuries or accidents. First, before using a wheelchair, always make sure that it is the best working condition, the breaks are working and the tires are not flat. Before transferring someone into the wheelchair, make sure that the breaks are locked up and lift up the footplates to prevent the person from falling over(“Safety Tips for Power Wheel Chair Use”, 2007). When using the wheelchair outside, use clothing that is bright and noticeable so that if someone or a vehicle passes by, you will be easily seen.
(” Metro Paratransit Information”, 2007). Always use the manufacturer’s seatbelt when using a wheelchair. Always use an appropriate gloves when maneuvering yourself or assisting someone in a wheelchair. Scan the environment for gradients, its surface and obstacles. Avoid surfaces that will jolt foot the wheelchair, pedals or the footplate. Always use the breaks to control speed. Avoid speeding when using a wheelchair. When assisting someone in a wheelchair going up or down to a steep gradient, it is safest to go backwards because it gives you more control when maneuvering the wheelchair.
Cross the road places that gives the other people and yourself as well, a maximum visibility. And lastly, always plan your route as you go along. (“Staying Safe When Using Your Wheelchair”, 2005). V. Conclusion A wheelchair and footplates is a very important tool or machine to a person that is incapable of walking. Wheelchair makes his/her life easier. It makes his/her routinely tasks or activities easier to perform. Without a wheelchair, he/she will have difficulty doing his/her daily activities or tasks. And, always be careful when using a wheelchair to avoid further injuries or accidents.(“Safety Tips for Power Wheel Chair Use”, 2007)
References
Footplate. (2007). Retrieved 28 February, 2007, from http://www. answers. com/topic/footplate Metro Paratransit Information. (2007). Retrieved 28 February, 2007, from http://www. ci. madison. wi. us/metro/Paratransit/SafetyTips. htm Safety Tips for Power Wheel Chair Use. (2007). Retrieved 28 February, 2007 Staying Safe When Using Your Wheelchair. ( 2005). from http://alzheimers. about. com/od/equipment/a/wheelchair. htm? iam=metaresults&terms=invacare+wheel+chair