The winter season brings many challenges for people with disabilities, so now is the time to begin preparations. Anyone who uses a mobility scooter or a wheelchair needs to take precautions to ensure their devices are safe to use anywhere they go. Slippery sidewalks, pathways, and even a wheelchair ramp can be very dangerous when snow and ice are present. By taking the proper precautions now, you can ensure you’ll be safe and ready for the many different weather elements the winter season brings. Here are some tips to consider.
Schedule A Service Appointment
If you use a power wheelchair or mobility scooter, scheduling a service appointment before the winter weather begins is essential. The batteries and other electrical components react adversely to cold weather, just like vehicles do. Even if you keep yours stored in your home, it’s ideal to get all mechanical components and batteries evaluated since you may have to take it out into the elements at some point. The last thing you want to happen is finding out your battery was weak at the wrong time, and you end up getting stranded out in the cold as a result.
Have Snow Tires Installed
People who have to use their wheelchair or mobility scooter outdoors often should consider getting snow tires installed if the area is prone to getting snow. Tires with better grips make for a safer experience for you and others around you. Just like vehicles, a wheelchair or mobility scooter can slide out of control on icy surfaces if proper precautions aren’t taken. The local technician in your area can recommend the type of snow tires you need based on your region.
Be Prepared For Outages With A Backup Power Source
No matter how predictable your day-to-day life is, it’s sometimes hard to predict when power outages may occur. This is why it’s critical to ensure your mobility scooter or power wheelchair is always fully charged, so it’s accessible when you need it most. During the most intense winter storms, you could be without power for several days, which means you need to have a backup power source available as well. Your mobility device is your key to independent living, so if you don’t have a way to charge it, you could be in a dangerous situation. Invest in a generator or other backup power source to ensure your mobility device is ready to go when you need it.
Next Day Access wants to ensure everyone using a mobility device is safe this winter. In addition to investing in a quality mobility device and maintaining it regularly, be sure to also keep family members or friends informed when you have to go outside. Sometimes batteries can fail unexpectedly, so if others know where you are, they can come to get you as quickly as possible. Our goal is to ensure this does not happen to you, so contact us today to see how we can help you get through the winter season as safely as possible.
