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5 Key Safety Skills for Wheelchair Users For those who use a wheelchair for mobility, safety is of utmost importance. Taking proper care and precautions allows for a safe and stress-free experience when it comes to taking care of oneself as a user, taking care of the wheelchair itself, or transporting the wheelchair from one place to another.   On this page, we'll provide you with practical tips and insights on wheelchair safety, including proper seating and posture, wheelchair skills training, fall prevention, and wheelchair securement.    Whether you're a wheelchair user who is new or experienced, this post will provide you with the essential knowledge and resources to maintain your safety and health.   1. Proper Seating and Posture Proper seating and posture are the bedrock of wheelchair safety. People who use wheelchairs should pay extra attention to their posture because sitting for extended periods can cause physical problems, such as discomfort, pressure sores, repetitive injuries, and other health problems.  It's essential for wheelchair users to maintain good posture to reduce strain on the back, neck, shoulder, pelvis, and spine. Additionally, proper posture can make it easier to operate the wheelchair without straining muscles and joints.   Here are some tips to help you maintain proper seating and posture in your wheelchair:   Sit straight up and avoid a slouched position  To maintain good posture, sit up straight against the wheelchair backrest for support and avoid hunching or tilting to either side. Keep your arms and shoulders level and adjust them if necessary. Let your arms rest naturally and comfortably on the armrests. Incorrect positioning can lead to unsupported posture, unnatural curves, and discomfort.   Keep your head and neck in a neutral position Make sure to align your head and neck with your spine to support your back's natural 'S' curves and improve your posture. Prolonged sitting, particularly with bad posture, can cause fatigue and strain in the neck muscles. This can lead to discomfort and pain.   Keeping your head and neck in a neutral position distributes the weight of your head evenly over your spine and shoulders, which lessens the strain on your neck muscles. Improving posture and alignment can prevent pressure sores, enhance breathing, and boost comfort and mobility.   Stabilize your pelvis To improve your posture, utilize posture support that helps stabilize your pelvis. Your pelvis plays a critical role in achieving good body position. To ensure optimal support and stability, ensure your wheelchair seat is appropriately sized. With the correct size, your weight will be evenly distributed, and your posture will be secured.   Use cushions or supports to distribute pressure away from sensitive areas to avoid discomfort and strain while sitting. Also, keep a 90-degree angle between your thighs and pelvis.   Keep your feet flat on the footrests To keep your body properly aligned, use footrests or footplates to support your feet. Make sure your feet are flat against the footrests, and try to keep a 90-degree angle between your legs and hips. Not only will this support your weight, but it will also provide stability for your pelvis. Double-check to ensure that the footrests are in the correct position.   2. Wheelchair Skills Training Wheelchair skills training can help you master essential skills and techniques to enhance mobility and safety. Such training can help you learn how to move smoothly and efficiently, transfer in and out of your wheelchair safely, navigate narrow doorways and uneven terrain, and more.   The following tips can help you with wheelchair skills training:  Bending backwards and forward To safely retrieve something from behind you, position your wheelchair as close to the thing as you can to maintain a stable and safe distance. To increase stability, you can adjust the position of the front casters on the wheelchair by moving them away from the rear drive wheels lengthening the distance between the sets of wheels (wheelbase).   To safely retrieve something from in front of you, again position your wheelchair close to the object while remaining safely in your seat. Move the front casters farther away from the drive wheels and lock the wheels.   Navigating obstacles Wheelchair users may encounter difficult obstacles like curbs, stairs, and other obstacles while moving around. The first step is to speak with your healthcare provider to develop a safe plan that suits your abilities and everyday needs.   The second thing to do is find an alternative path that does have a ramp or an accessible pathway. If there are no alternative paths, ask someone for help and approach it cautiously.   Tilting Wheelchairs When wheelchair users wants to tilt their wheelchair, they should only do so with the help of a trained professional. They both need to communicate appropriately and make sure that the wheelchair is adjusted correctly to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. The caregiver should provide a stable part of the back of the wheelchair. It's essential to tell the user when you are going to tip the wheelchair. Additionally, the wheelchair user can sit back in their chair and keep their hands and feet within the wheelchair frame.   3. Fall Prevention and Recovery Falls are a common risk associated with wheelchair use, especially when using manual wheelchairs. Falls resulting from such circumstances can cause severe injuries, including fractures, bruises, and head injuries.   The following tips can help you prevent falls and recover safely in the event of a fall: Fasten your seatbelt or harness while in the wheelchair to keep your body secure. Additionally, using anti-tipping devices is advised.  Remember to avoid leaning forward or backwards, try to stay centred in your wheelchair seat, and don't try to reach too far out of your wheelchair for any objects. Before travelling, check the path and avoid wet or slippery surfaces.  When getting out of your wheelchair, remember to lock the brakes and move your footrests aside.  Maintain your wheelchair regularly to ensure it works correctly. Inspect the wheels, casters, and brakes for any signs of wear and tear.   If you fall, stay relaxed and keep your arms and legs close to your body to prevent injury. Ensure you are upright and in a safe position before getting up. Seek medical attention if the fall is severe or results in an injury. 4. Wheelchair Securement in Vehicles Wheelchair securement is crucial when travelling by vehicle. Proper securement can prevent your wheelchair from moving or tipping over, which can cause serious injuries. It is essential to use the appropriate securement system for your wheelchair and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.   The following tips can help you secure your wheelchair properly in a vehicle: Refer to the user manual guidelines provided by the manufacturer to secure your wheelchair correctly in the vehicle, as they may differ. Ensure that the vehicle is equipped to securely accommodate a wheelchair. While it is recommended to transfer from the wheelchair to the vehicle seat, this may not always be feasible. Choose a securement system with crisscrossed straps, lap belts, and shoulder harnesses. Securement systems should be mounted on the floor or vehicle seat of the car, van, or truck. Make sure that the securement system is compatible with your particular model of chair and that it is installed correctly. Remove any accessories or detachable parts from the wheelchair before transporting it. Engage the wheelchair brakes and properly tighten the straps or ties before starting the journey. Face the wheelchair forward as a general rule when transporting it. If there is a bulkhead that can provide proper support for your head and back, it may be acceptable to transport the wheelchair facing backwards.   5. Passenger securement in the vehicle To make sure a wheelchair passenger is secure in a vehicle, there are a few measures you can take to ensure their safety and comfort during transportation.    Here are some steps you can take to make sure a wheelchair passenger is secure in a vehicle:   Make sure to use a restraint system tested and approved for use with the wheelchair user and your vehicle. For maximum stability, place the wheelchair in the vehicle according to the manufacturer's instructions, facing forward, and securely fasten it. Use the appropriate restraints for the passenger that are tested, secure, and suitable for different passenger sizes and weights in order to keep them secured. Check if the tie-downs are adequately tightened to secure the wheelchair to stay in place during transit.   Conclusion It is crucial to ensure wheelchair safety by taking care of oneself as a user, taking care of the wheelchair, and transporting it between different locations.    It is vital to practice proper seating and posture, maintain your wheelchair well, and undergo wheelchair skills training to enhance your mobility, accessibility, and safety.   By following the tips mentioned in this blog post, you can ensure a safe and comfortable ride in your wheelchair. With the information and advice provided, wheelchair users can remain safe and enjoy their travel experience without worries or stress.   We hope you've enjoyed this blog post on wheelchair safety and transport. Please contact us for assistance if you have any more questions or concerns.

Navigating Transportation in a Wheelchair: Advice and Practical Solutions Whether you are going to a hospital appointment or just to the store, travelling in a wheelchair can bring its fair share of challenges (stairs, stigma, and bumpy sidewalks, for starters). Despite these challenges, being in a wheelchair should not stop anyone from getting where they need to go and living their life to the fullest.   While careful planning and effort are required when leaving the house in a wheelchair. Being familiar with all available options is crucial for wheelchair users to support their mobility, freedom, and independence. With the right tools and knowledge getting around in a wheelchair becomes much more accessible.   You can have a safe and enjoyable trip, and that's what this blog is all about – giving you valuable tips for travelling with a wheelchair.   Tips for Traveling with a Wheelchair Here are some tips and practical solutions to help you navigate transportation in a wheelchair: 1. Research Your Options There are many different types of transportation available to wheelchair users. Research your options, such as special buses or taxis with wheelchair lifts, and ask if they are accessible for wheelchair users.    Sometimes you don’t have an option, meaning you simply have to fly by plane. So let's break down all of the options available.   1.1 Wheelchair Accessible Minibusses & Taxis Many regular buses offer wheelchair access and little assistance. However, in some cases, a more accessible minibus or taxi may be required. You can look for companies that provide special services for wheelchair users and book a suitable vehicle with wheelchair assistance.   For example, Age UK offers a door-to-door service for older people and provides a wheelchair accessible minibus service.    Transport for London (TFL) also has a service called Taxicard, specifically designed for individuals with mobility impairments who reside in London. Additionally, they have step-free journeys where commuters can choose their journeys via train, bus, or boat without walking any stairs or escalators. 1.2 Trains Trains and London Underground are important means of transportation for disabled people. Most railway stations provide ramps, lifts, or escalators, making it easier for wheelchair users to access and exit.   The National Rail offers insights into stations that provide accessibility and unique facilities for disabled people. This can help you plan your journey and give you an idea of the station layout before starting your travel. They also offer passenger assist. If you need assistance with navigating the station, getting on and off the train and carrying baggage, it is recommended to book as early as possible.   The Accessible Travel Policy (ATP) describes the steps and processes put in place to make sure that people with disabilities can use transportation and travel services in the same way as everyone else. The Disabled Persons Railcard offers 1/3 off travel. This card can be purchased online or at any manned National Rail station. You can check here if you're eligible.   1.3 Planes Many airlines offer free services and assistance programs to make sure that all passengers can travel comfortably. It is important to contact the airline beforehand so that any modifications to your journey can be made in advance.   Most, if not all, airlines offer assistance and facilities to those with disabilities. Such services often include preboarding, boarding and offboarding, and transporting mobility equipment and luggage.   1.4 Ships and Ferries Cruise ships and ferries offer accessible cabins, wheelchair ramps, and other amenities that increase comfort and safety for wheelchair users. It is advisable to inform the shipping service that you are in a wheelchair and require assistance, as this will help them better plan your trip and experience.   Advice for Travelling with a Wheelchair  1. Plan In Advance When travelling with a wheelchair, planning ahead is a good idea. Contact the airline, public transport provider, or travel agency in advance to inform them that you will be travelling with a wheelchair. This will enable them to make any necessary arrangements for you.   It is important to research accessibility information to ensure that the places you plan to visit have appropriate accommodations such as disabled bathrooms or wheelchair access. If travelling alone, don't be afraid to ask for assistance, such as requesting help from the driver getting onto the bus.   When planning your trip, consider that traveling in a wheelchair may take longer than usual, so it's important to remember this. Additionally, if you require a caregiver's assistance, make sure to contact them beforehand to make arrangements for the duration of the trip. Having someone to help you can also help take the load off doing this research alone.    2. Prepare for the Trip It is essential to make sure your wheelchair is in good shape before you leave for your trip. This helps avoid or support unseen situations that may occur as you travel. Make sure the wheelchair is safe and secure for travel and that all its parts are functioning correctly.   Don't forget to bring extra supplies such as a repair kit or spare tyre for longer trips. Packing things that will make your ride more comfortable, such as blankets, pillows, and a cushion for your seat, is also a good idea. 3. Know Your Rights As we discussed earlier, with the Accessible Travel Policy (ATP) in place, certain regulations protect you when travelling with a wheelchair. Knowing your rights can help you receive the services and accommodations you need along the way.   Ultimately each mode of transportation brings its fair share of challenges, but with the right preparation and research, you can rest assured that your travels will be smooth and stress-free.   Conclusion With the help of laws and regulations, businesses facilitating wheelchair users have become more accessible and accommodating. This has played a significant role in improving the travel experience for disabled individuals.   Traveling with a wheelchair can seem overwhelming at first, but the right advice and practical solutions can go a long way to ensure your trips are safe, successful, and enjoyable wherever you may be headed.