Getting Your Wheelchair Ready for Winter
It’s that time of year where everyone needs to make preparations for the winter. This applies to wheelchair users. The winter is filled with all types of treacherous weather conditions such as rain, snow, and sleet. It’s time to equip your wheelchair to withstand all of those things, and here’s how you can do it.
Load up On Layers
We all know just how cold it can get in the Mid-Atlantic region. Prepare for any weather by loading your wheelchair up with layers. These layers can include blankets, sweaters, and any other material that you can put on your body to stay warm. If your wheelchair doesn’t have space to put these extra layers, consider buying a wheelchair backpack for extra storage.
DIY Wheelchair Snow Tires
Did you know that you can transform your current manual wheelchair tires to snow tires? It’s an easy and inexpensive way to increase your chair’s tire traction. Here’s how to do it:
- Evenly tie 25-30 plastic nylon wire ties around each tire
- Place the tie heads, or buckle, on the inside of the wheel
- Ensure that the tie heads point slightly away from the tire, not under.
- Cut off any excess material from the tie
These steps can be used for the wheels of powered wheelchairs as well, but they may require fewer ties.
Buy Clip-on Flashlights
It gets darker sooner during the winter. Just because it gets dark at 4 pm doesn’t mean we have to stay in the house after 4 pm. Invest in some clip-on flashlights for your wheelchair. You could even use headlamps and taillights meant for bicycles to increase your wheelchair’s visibility. Reflectors are another good option. Remember to always have some sort of light on your wheelchair at night so that others can see you.
Invest in a New Wheelchair
If you’ve been having problems with your current wheelchair, or you know that it’s only a matter of time until your wheelchair stops working, consider replacing it before the winter. The last thing you want is to be stranded in the cold with a wheelchair that doesn’t work. The fall is the best time to look for a new wheelchair since weather conditions aren’t as extreme as in the winter, and you’ll have time to get used to your new chair before winter hits.
Looking for Winter Mobility Solutions?
With winter right around the corner, it’s time to take action now to ensure that your wheelchair is ready for the road ahead. Freedom Mobility is your one-stop-shop for all your mobility needs. We’ll help you determine the best way to winterize your wheelchair so that you can remain independent. Don’t wait, call or contact us today to learn more about our MD wheelchair rental.