Golden Technologies ALANTE GP201SS - Manual (Page 34)

Alante´ GP201 Manual Revised 060208
34
RIDING YOUR ALANTE´
™
Control through tight spots
As you use your Alante´
™
to increase your mobility, you will undoubtedly
encounter some obstacles that will require practice to negotiate smoothly
and safely. Below are some common obstacles that you may meet during
the daily use of your power chair. Listed with those obstacles are some
driving tips that should help you conquer those obstacles. Learn and
follow those tips, and with surprising ease you will soon be in control of
your power chair as you maneuver it through doors, up and down
ramps, up and over curbs, through grass and gravel, and up and down
inclines.
Doors
• Approach any unfamiliar door slowly.
• Notice if the door has a knob or a push bar.
• Determine if the door opens towards you or away from you.
• Do not try to use your own strength to open the door. Learn to use
the power of your power chair to do the majority of the work for
you.
If the door opens away from you:
1. Use one hand to turn the doorknob or to operate the push bar.
2. Use your other hand to steer the power chair and to gently press
on the joystick that will move your power chair slowly forward.
3. Use your arm to push the door gently open.
4. Drive through the doorway.
5. If it is a self-closing door, it will close behind you.
6. If it is not a self-closing door, stop your power chair when it is clear
of the door and use your hand to push the door closed.
If the door opens towards you:
1. Use one hand to turn the doorknob or to pull the handle.
2. Keep your grip on the knob or on the handle.
3. Use your other hand to steer your power chair and to gently press
the joystic that will move your power chair slowly in reverse.
4. Allow the power of your Alante´ to pull the door completely open.
5. When the door is completely open, stop your power chair.
6. Drive through the doorway while keeping your hand on the door to
prevent it from hitting or blocking your power chair.
7. If it is a self-closing door, it will close behind you.
8. If it is not a self-closing door, pull it closed behind you.