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Wheelchair Safety Tips

Going up a step

1. Push the wheelchair forward till it is near the step

2. Step on the rear tip bar to lift the front of the wheelchair slightly

3. Push forward, and then lower the front wheels down slowly on to the step

4. Push forward until the back wheels are near the step

5. Stand firm and use the strength of your legs to lift the wheelchair forward the step

Going down a step

1. Make sure the way is clear behind you

2. Pull the wheelchair until the backlines up with the edge of the step

3. Use your legs for support to ease the back wheels down the step.When applicable, put one leg against the back of the wheelchair or one leg stepping on the rear tip bar to control the speed

4. Step on the rear tip bar and slowly raise the front of the wheelchair while pulling the wheelchair backward. When applicable, pull the wheelchair until the front wheels line up with the edge of the step for better control

5. Keep your foot on the rear tip bar and lower the front wheels down onto the ground

Going up ramps

Push from behind the wheelchair to go upward, and go in a zig-zag pattern to make pushing easier

Going down a ramp

Use semi-lock if available on the wheelchair to slow its sliding speed. Go down the ramp backwards, using your body to move at a steady speed while making sure the way is clear of obstacles