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For easier handling of wheelchair maintenance, repair and emergencies, keep a card with your chair at all times that includes the following information:

• Your name, address and phone number (in case of an accident).

• Your doctor's name and phone number (in case of an accident).

• The names and phone numbers of relatives or friends to be contacted in case of an accident.

• The make and model number of your wheelchair.

• The manufacturer's toll-free number.

• The name and phone number of your local repair facility.

• The phone number of a mobile repair firm, if there is one in your area.

• The phone number of a local wheelchair transport service (in case you're stranded while out of the house).

• Your insurance policy number and related information.

• Your insurance company's phone number for any necessary authorization.

If you're going to be alone in your wheelchair or scooter anywhere you can get stranded, let people know ahead of time where you're going and when you expect to be back. In such cases, it's also wise to have a cellular telephone along in case you need to call for assistance.

Tape a piece of paper in plain sight somewhere on your wheelchair to remind you when it's time to stop by your wheelchair maintenance facility for a six-month checkup on your chair or scooter. Another way to help remember your twice-a-year maintenance schedule is to peg the two visits to a couple of special events that are roughly six months apart -- perhaps your birthday and some holiday such as the Fourth of July or Thanksgiving.