The winter brings cold weather, snow, and sleet. These weather conditions pose a major safety risk for wheelchair users. If wheelchair users aren’t careful, they’re at risk for slips and falls, especially when using a ramp. Take a look at how you can winterize your ramp to avoid accidents.
Keep the Surrounding Area Clear
During the winter, make sure that the surrounding sidewalks and pathways leading up to the ramp are clear of snow and other debris. Take the time to clear off snow from those areas using a thick bristled push broom and a plastic shovel.
Utilize Ice Melts
Use ice melts before snowstorms to protect your ramp from ice buildup. You can also use it after the ice has formed to break it up. When choosing an ice melt solution, be sure to buy one that has a non-corrosive ice melt substance. If the bottle doesn’t specifically say non-corrosive, look to see if it’s safe for pets.
Avoid Metal Shovels
Metal shovels can wreak havoc on your wheelchair ramp. They’re great for clearing off sidewalks, but when used on metal ramps, they can cause dents and scrapes. Always use a plastic shovel when clearing off your wheelchair ramp. This will get the job done efficiently while protecting the integrity of the ramp.
Add Powder Coating
If you have a slippery wheelchair ramp, consider adding a powder coating. These coatings will increase the grip of your ramp, therefore making it safer to use during the winter. If this is something you’d like to do, consider having it added well before the snow arrives.
Add Some Traction
During the winter, the last thing you’ll want is for your wheelchair user to lose grip of the ramp. To avoid this, you can add traction strips or traction paint to add some much-needed traction. These sandpaper-like materials will provide the traction needed for wheelchairs to safely go up and down the ramp.
Work With Freedom Mobility
When you need help winterizing your wheelchair ramp, Freedom Mobility is always here to help. Whether you’re looking to buy a ramp for the winter or are just looking for Maryland ramp rental, we have exactly what you need. We’ll work with you to find the best ways to winterize your ramp so that users can stay safe this winter.
Give us a call today to talk to one of our specialists or to schedule an in-person showroom appointment.