Invacare X-Terminator BB User Manual

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SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
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SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair 
user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and 
techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is 
important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in 
maneuvering around the frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are discussed on the 
following pages have been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that 
may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each 
individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that 
they may encounter, however, ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual 
MUST be followed. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair 
user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
Stability and Balance
 WARNING
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the SEAT POSITIONING 
STRAP is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat 
positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning 
strap as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a 
safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If 
signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.
Anti-tippers MUST BE attached at all times. Inasmuch as the anti-tippers are an 
option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the anti-tippers), Invacare 
strongly recommends ordering the anti-tippers as an additional safeguard for the 
wheelchair user.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times 
maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and 
stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of 
gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the 
center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat positioning straps for additional safety 
while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than stability will allow. Make 
sure casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be 
achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.