How safe is your actual wheelchair?
If you or a loved one are a wheelchair user, you’ll find this information valuable. Today we’re going to go over some maintenance tips to ensure your safety. You can rest assured that our elevators and wheelchair lifts are safe to use, but how safe is your actual wheelchair? Have you checked it in a while? Here are some tips!
Knowing How Often to Examine Your Wheelchair
If you own a manual wheelchair, how often you should check it depends on the model and how and when you use it. You always want to keep the manual and any other paperwork you received when you purchased your wheelchair so you can reference it when needed. Particular features of wheelchairs are more subject to wear and tear. For this reason, you want these specific features to be in excellent shape. Here are some general rules of thumb:
- Check the tire pressure each month
- Look at the condition of the brakes, backrest, and any moving parts each month
- Examine the quick release mechanism, the anti-tip, and your footrest and upholstery every 3-4 months
- Clean the framing chair now and then
- Make sure there are no loose screws
- Use only the wheelchair’s original parts or those recommended by the manufacturer
The Brakes
Each month, you or a loved one should check the brakes. Just like a car, the brakes on a wheelchair play a significant role regarding safety. Poor placement, an improperly adjusted part, and low tire pressure can impact break efficiency. Wet tires can also cause poor brake performance.
The Front Wheels
The front wheels should have the proper fit and functionality. They should move fluidly and shouldn’t pull you to the right or the left, even slightly. The best way to avoid the issue is to check that the wheel’s angle is adjusted so that both front wheels touch the ground and rotate freely.
The Tires and Inner Tubes
If you want to ensure that your wheelchair has the best mobility, check that its tire pressure isn’t low. Otherwise, it will take a lot of effort to propel the device. On the other hand, if the pressure is too high, this could cause the tires to burst.
If you’re interested in purchasing a wheelchair lift for yourself or your loved one, reach out to Preferred Elevator’s sister company, Preferred Mobility today!
Preferred Elevator: We’re On the Up and Up!
For 14 years, Preferred Elevator has served residents in Central Maryland, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. You can rely on our experienced home installation team and quality products.
For our commercial elevator clients, we also provide annual inspections of your equipment to adhere to standards established by the state of Maryland. During these inspections, we make sure that your commercial mobility product is functioning correctly and efficiently. We’ll also go over all safety devices and customized features offered within your plan!
Get in touch with us! Our business hours are Monday-Friday 8 am -5 pm. Reach us by phone at 410-238-2555, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
