As technology advances, wheelchair safety is becoming more and more important as wheelchair models have become more efficient and power driven. There is a wide selection available to choose from such as, folding, light-weight models to indoor stair climbing models and reclining back models just to name a few. Power wheelchairs are excellent for those whom cannot operate a manual wheelchair; moreover, it much simpler with the control of a joystick. However, when using a wheelchair, ensuring the user's safety is critical and what functions are best for them.

Taking safety precautions and tips when using a power wheelchair is vital, like many say, "It is better safe than sorry." Stair-climbing wheelchairs can be very dangerous when they are not used properly. As a result, critical injuries and possible deaths can actually happen. When purchasing a stair-climbing wheelchair, you must also take into consideration of the user's age and health conditions, this can affect the way they operate the wheelchair. Also, make sure the user is comfortable with operating the functions, this is the best way to prevent serious accidents and injuries.

The great thing about wheelchairs is the specified functions available depending on the user's disabilities. For those who do not have the ability to use hand controls, braking and safety shut-off controls can be operated by the breathing of the mouth. Impaired arm users should use the arm-stabilization control. Most importantly, mechanical brakes are essential for every power wheelchair. Be sure to purchase large front wheels if you are considering using power wheelchairs outdoors frequently and when using indoor wheelchairs, make sure the wheelchair is equipped with front-wheel casters, it is an smoother ride on flat surfaces.

When using a wheelchair, either powered or manual outdoors, it is best for the user to wear vibrant and bright colors, so they can visible form a far distance. When helping the user into their wheelchair, it is good idea to wear gloves. Always remember to "buckle the seat belt of the wheelchair, if there isn't one, install one, this is the best way of ensuring the user's safety when operating a wheelchair.

This is a great tip, when assisting someone on their manual wheelchair; make sure all four wheels are touching the ground at all times. As the assister, try to avoid building up the wheelchair's speed for further control, using breaks often is a good idea. For smooth transitions in urban areas, use curb drops on people's driveways.

It is best not to travel on rough terrains, such as rocky pathways because it can easily bump the footplate or foot pedals of the wheelchair, you do not want the user to fly off the wheelchair. Also, try avoiding steep pathways and obstacles; it is easier for you as the assister to control the weight and the safety of the user. However, if you are traveling steep gradients, put the wheelchair in reverse for additional control. When crossing a street, make sure the wheelchair is visible because wheelchairs are generally heavy and are slow depending on the user's weight. You must always remember to have fully charged batteries.

Purchasing the right functions and controls suitable for the user's disabilities is essential, in case of emergencies, always carry a cellular phone and when operating a power wheelchair, having a rechargeable batteries available is always reliable. It is best to avoid unfavorable weather, such as rain, sleet, or snow. And remember, when it comes to wheelchair safety, it is truly "better to be safe than sorry."

Note the above wheelchair safety tips are just suggestions and you should always follow the manual provided with your wheelchair for proper safety procedures.