Equipment Handling Guides and Tutorials
At PROI Ceuta Association, we ensure maximum comfort and safety for our users in all activities. Therefore, we provide our volunteers, families, and dream supporters with this compendium of practical tutorials on handling our adapted equipment.
Running Wheelchairs (Freedom Chairs)
Our Freedom wheelchairs are designed for youth participation in popular asphalt races. Being lightweight and aerodynamic, they require specific guidelines to maintain control at high speeds.
- Properly secure the user's five-point harness and side supports before departure.
- Check the optimal inflation of all three tires and verify that the rear wheel disc brakes respond instantly.
- The runner or main pilot must always wear the safety leash wrapped around their wrist to prevent the chair from rolling away.
Joëlette All-Terrain Chair
The Joëlette chair is a single-wheel vehicle that allows people with reduced mobility to explore mountain paths and trail tracks. Handling it requires the constant coordination of at least two pilots.
- The rear pilot (located at the rear handles) is responsible for balancing the chair laterally and operating the disc brake lever.
- The front pilot is responsible for traction using the chest harness and guiding the direction of travel on steep terrain.
- Establish constant communication using verbal warnings to coordinate going over bumps, stones, or other obstacles on the path.
Amphibious Chairs and Beach Equipment
During the summer program, amphibious chairs (such as the Amphibuggy model) allow users to move across the sand and enjoy safe adapted swimming in the sea.
- Perform user transfers to the amphibious chair on a flat surface with the brakes or stabilizers engaged.
- Enter and exit the water backward facing the waves. This cushions the impact of the water and prevents dangerous tilts.
- In the water, the constant presence of at least two companions holding the chair is required, actively assessing sea currents.
Cranes and Transfer Systems
To transfer users from their everyday wheelchairs to the association's various adapted devices, we use portable cranes and specific transfer harnesses.
- Place the transfer harness around the user's back and cross the lower straps under the thighs symmetrically.
- Align the crane spreader bar and securely hook the corresponding straps according to the required tilt for the user.
- Lift the user slowly a few inches off the ground, guiding them gently by hand and paying attention to their head and limbs.
