H. Transfers
A transfer requires good balance and stability. You should receive training from your therapist
before attempting to do a transfer on your own.
•
Before transferring out of your wheelchair every caution should be taken to reduce the
gap between the two surfaces.
•
Engage the wheel locks to lock the rear wheels.
•
Rotate the casters forward to increase the wheelbase of the wheelchair.
•
Remove or swing away the footrests.
•
Have someone assist you unless you are well experienced in transfers.
It is dangerous to transfer on your own. It requires good balance and agility. Be aware there is
a point during every transfer when the wheelchair seat is not below you.
WARNING: Failure to comply with the instructions above may cause a fall or loss of
control, which may result in serious injury or death.
I. Your Wheelchair and the Environment
•
Your wheelchair is made of many different materials including metal and fabric.
Exposure to water or excessive moisture may cause the metal in the wheelchair to rust
or corrode and the fabric to tear. Dry your chair as soon as possible if exposed to water.
•
DO NOT USE YOUR WHEELCHAIR IN A SHOWER, POOL OR BODY OF WATER. This
will cause your wheelchair to rust or corrode and eventually fail.
•
Do not operate your wheelchair in sand. Sand can get into the wheel bearings and
moving parts. This will cause damage and eventually will cause the wheelchair to fail.
•
Make sure any ramp, slope or curb cut you may attempt to ride on is compliant with
ADA guidelines. Riding across, up or down any slope that is too great may cause a loss
of stability.
ADA Guidelines and more information about accessible design are available at:
http://www.ada.gov/
WARNING: Failure to comply with the instructions above may cause a fall or loss of
control, which may result in serious injury or death.
IV. WARNINGS
9