Purchasing a stairlift can make your home a much safer place for you to live, no matter the reason for your decreased mobility. It can help to give both you and your loved one’s peace of mind that you are safe at home. However, improper use of your stairlift can be just as dangerous as not having one. With this in mind, there are a number of rules that you should adhere to when using your stairlift.
So, what are the safety tips that you should be adhering to with your brand new stairlift?
General Safety
The best general safety tips are:
- Children should never be allowed to play on your stairlift – it is not a toy.
- Clear stairways from any obstructions.
- Your seatbelt should be worn at all times and fastened correctly – incorrect seatbelt wearing is the number one cause of stairlift accidents in the home.
- Loose clothing or other items should be secured out of the way of the way of the stairlift track.
- Keep liquids away from all areas of the stairlift, to ensure functionality.
Before the Journey
There are a number of things that you should consider before you begin an ascent or descent on your stairlift.
- If the stairs are in use – i.e. someone is coming up and down them – then do not use the stairlift. This is extremely dangerous.
- Always be away of your pets, if they are in harm’s way then a journey should not be undertaken. Training them to stay clear of the stairlift when in use is extremely advisable, it can prevent damage to your lift, yourself and your pet.
During the Journey
- Be extra cautious when getting on and off the stairlift at the top of a staircase. The higher level poses a bigger safety threat and should be treated with care.
- Do not use the stairlift as a way to transport items, it is for people only.
- The user manual states a weight limit, this should be adhered to at all times.
- Your stairlift is only designed to carry one person at a time.
- Use caution when transporting hot liquids (tea or soup) up and down the stairlift.
Ultimately, safety is of paramount importance when using a stairlift. It is a device that is meant to increase your liveability and safety within your home, so you must ensure you use it in the safest way possible.
If you or someone you know has mobility issues and is needs a stairlift, then don’t hesitate to contact us on 0800 046 3438. Here at ALS Stairlifts, we have an expert team waiting to give you guidance on which type of stairlift is right for your requirements.