27 msfocusmagazine.org For power wheelchairs, additional factors may come into play, such as the type of vehicle necessary to transport such a chair, the battery type and life, and the features. Safety Once you have been fitted for your wheel- chair, the concern turns to safety. Two central issues are stability and maintenance. Stability includes your center of gravity, movement, and surface conditions that contribute to tipping and falling. Maintenance is the ongoing process of ensuring your wheelchair continues operating at peak performance. Stability begins with being mindful of your center of gravity. Whether sitting or traveling, being properly positioned is crucial to wheelchair safety. And your center of gravity will change as a consequence of bending, reaching, and getting in and out of the chair itself. When bending (eithersideways orforward), reaching, or leaning, it is best to be as close as possible to the desired object. If you have to reach backwards, only reach as far as your arm will extend. Do not bend down between your knees or move forward in your seat to pick something up. When reaching, bending, or stretching, use your brakes or wheel locks to remain in a secure, well-balanced position. Finally, rehearse your movements in the presence of someone – whether a caregiver, friend, or loved one – so you will have a better understanding of your ability to move. Outdoor surface conditions can also contribute to tipping and falling. Two of the main contributors are wet or sandy surfaces. Even a small amount of sand on a paved surface can be enough to unbalance a wheel- chair, making it spin and tip over. Wet surfaces present the same danger. If you are unable to avoid traveling in the rain, be sure to move at a slow and cautious pace. Before moving up or down a ramp, inspect it first, or have someone inspect it for you. Avoid curbs, steep inclines, or any obstacle that presents a risk to tipping the chair over. Only navigate these with assistance. Whether you are in a manual or electric wheelchair, you can also prevent the danger of tipping over by being careful not to put heavy loads on the back of the wheelchair. Maintenance is an essential part of both general wheelchair safety and extending the chair’s operational life. If the quality of your chair declines, it can lead to joint and posture problems, and even spinal deformities Become familiarwith the owner’s manual and the conditions of the warranty. And cultivate a good relationship with your wheelchair servicer. While maintenance is recommended annually, routine preventative care is a necessity. Routine care includes keeping the wheelchair clean, regularly inspecting the tires for air pressure and wear, tightening screws, and checking forworn-out positioning equipment, pads, and cushions. The front wheels (casters) should be regularly checked, and brakes should be tested to make sure they work properly. There are additional concerns that come with electric wheelchairs. The power should be turned off when getting in and out, and when the chair is not in use. The speed of the chair should be set to a speed the user can safely handle, especially when going in reverse. Make sure the battery is always charged. If it is a water battery, regular inspections are necessary to make sure it is full. Finally, do not let children ride on the battery housing.