Making the Most of Beautiful Summer Weather
Summer brings gorgeous weather and countless opportunities to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you’re using a wheelchair, mobility scooter, walker, or other assistive device, the warm months offer perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. However, summer also presents unique safety considerations that require planning and preparation.
From protecting your equipment against heat damage to staying safe during summer storms, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the season confidently and safely while exploring the great outdoors.
Understanding Summer Heat Risks for Mobility Equipment Users
Personal Safety Concerns
Summer heat poses particular challenges for mobility equipment users. Among the many ways our bodies work differently with a spinal cord injury is temperature regulation, in part because SCI impedes our ability to sweat below our injury level and compromises blood flow in the legs. This makes it more difficult to stay cool when temperatures rise.
Key heat-related risks include:
- Heat exhaustion and heat stroke from prolonged sun exposure
- Dehydration due to increased fluid needs
- Burns from hot surfaces on wheelchairs and scooters that have been in direct sunlight
- Medication effects as some medications can increase heat sensitivity
Equipment Safety Concerns
Your mobility equipment also faces summer challenges:
- Battery drain occurs faster in extreme heat
- Metal surfaces become dangerously hot to touch
- Plastic components can warp or melt in direct sunlight
- Electronic systems may malfunction when overheated
Essential Summer Safety Strategies
Mobility-Specific Cooling Strategies
Equipment-Integrated Cooling:
- Attach portable fans directly to wheelchair armrests or mobility scooter handles for hands-free cooling
- Install cup holders with insulated sleeves to keep drinks cold and accessible without stopping
- Use wheelchair-specific cooling vests that don’t interfere with transfers or seating
- When I need to cool down, I go for the obvious — dump a lot of cool water on my head and put a cold, wet towel on my neck and body.
Emergency Cooling Kits:
- Create wheelchair-mounted emergency cooling kit with instant ice packs — the kind where you break the tab and shake for instant cold
- Store cooling towels in accessible pouches that activate when squeezed
- Keep backup cooling supplies in vehicle or with companions for multi-location outings
Advanced Heat Protection
Temperature Regulation for Reduced Sensation:
- Use digital thermometers to check surface temperatures before contact on areas with reduced sensation
- Apply sunscreen to areas you can’t feel, including the tops of feet, backs of legs, and any paralyzed areas
- Set phone alarms every 30 minutes to check for sun exposure in areas with no sensation
Smart Timing and Planning
Beat the Heat:
- Avoid travelling during the brightest periods of the day (12pm-3pm) during these periods maybe get some rest so you are ready for your trip.
- Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours
- Check weather forecasts and UV alerts before heading out
- Have backup indoor plans for extremely hot days
Route Planning:
- Where possible plan the route to be shaded, great places being wooded areas, and where this is not possible be aware of shaded areas you can get to easily along the way.
- Identify air-conditioned rest stops along your route
- Allow extra time for breaks and cooling periods
- Inform others of your planned route and expected return time
Protecting Your Mobility Equipment
Pre-Trip Equipment Checks
Battery Maintenance:
- Ensure the batteries for your mobility scooter are fully charged and your mobility scooter is regularly serviced.
- The summer heat can also cause wheelchair batteries to drain faster than usual. Regularly charge your wheelchair battery and carry extras if possible.
- Store batteries in cool, dry conditions when not in use
- Consider backup battery packs for extended outings
General Equipment Preparation:
- Check tire pressure and overall condition
- Ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated
- Test brakes and steering mechanisms
- Clean equipment regularly to prevent heat-related damage
Advanced Equipment Heat Protection
Battery Optimization in Heat:
- Park power wheelchairs with batteries facing away from direct sun to prevent thermal shutdowns
- Use reflective battery covers specifically designed for mobility equipment
- Monitor battery charge more frequently in heat — The summer heat can also cause wheelchair batteries to drain faster than usual
- Consider swapping to lithium batteries which perform better in extreme temperatures
Preventing Contact Burns:
- I transferred into a tennis chair, and the ratchet strap that goes over your legs was black and had been cooking in the sun. I ratcheted it over my legs and didn’t think about it until I removed it, and there was a nasty burn on my thighs where the strap had been.
- Use reflective tape on black metal components like footplates and armrests
- Install removable cushioning on frequently-touched metal surfaces
- Driving gloves are an essential piece of equipment — specifically for summer heat protection, not just winter
Specialized Summer Equipment:
- Our awning is very popular in the summer months. It’s extra-wide, giving you the extra protection required on those sunny days.
- Install tilt mechanisms that allow you to angle away from direct sun while maintaining mobility
- Use equipment-specific tarps with tie-down points designed for mobility devices
Summer Weather Challenges
Mobility-Specific Weather Strategies
Equipment Positioning During Storms:
- Position power wheelchairs and scooters so water runs away from control panels and charging ports
- Use wheelchair-specific rain covers that don’t obstruct vision or emergency transfers
- Know which mobility equipment functions are safe to use in light rain versus requiring complete shelter
Post-Storm Accessibility Maintenance:
- When mud and dirt build up on the ramp, it covers the extruded tread that creates the slip-resistant surface. When the surface loses its traction, your wheels are more likely to slip and slide
- Use pressure washers on specific wheel patterns to restore proper traction
- Check that storm debris hasn’t created new accessibility barriers on familiar routes
Maintaining Accessibility Features
Ramp Safety:
- We recommend using a hose to wash off anything that might linger on the ramp after the storm. Every once in a while you may want to clean your ramp off with dish soap and water, but rinsing the debris away will usually do the trick.
- Clear vegetation that may grow over accessible pathways
- Check that railings and surfaces remain secure
- Address slip hazards from summer growth and debris
Emergency Preparedness
Essential Emergency Kit
Always carry or have easily accessible:
- Cell phone with emergency contacts programmed
- Instant ice packs for overheating emergencies
- Extra water and electrolyte drinks
- First aid supplies including burn treatment
- Emergency contact information
- List of current medications
Recognizing Mobility-Specific Heat Emergencies
Unique Warning Signs for Mobility Equipment Users:
- Power wheelchair or scooter suddenly moving slower or struggling on familiar terrain
- Difficulty operating controls that usually feel effortless
- Feeling dizzy when transferring but not when seated
- Among the many ways our bodies work differently with a spinal cord injury is temperature regulation, in part because SCI impedes our ability to sweat below our injury level
Equipment-Based Emergency Responses:
- Overheating is an emergency, and immediate cooling is a must. This means get out of the sun, take off things like compression hose, and apply cold, wet towels.
- Use mobility equipment to get to cooling faster rather than attempting to walk when overheated
- Position wheelchair or scooter to block sun for others while emergency cooling
- Know how to quickly remove or loosen equipment that may trap heat
Enjoying Summer Outdoor Adventures Safely
Specialized Adventure Planning
Terrain-Specific Equipment Considerations:
- Beach outings: Research which locations offer beach wheelchairs and what transfer assistance is available
- Trail adventures: Identify trails with firm surfaces rated for mobility equipment, not just “wheelchair accessible”
- Camping: Look for accessible camping that includes raised fire rings and accessible picnic tables, not just accessible restrooms
- Festival attendance: Contact organizers about accessible viewing areas and whether mobility equipment charging stations are available
Advanced Route Planning:
- Where possible plan the route to be shaded, great places being wooded areas, and where this is not possible be aware of shaded areas you can get to easily along the way.
- Map equipment repair shops or medical supply stores along adventure routes
- Identify accessible restrooms with adult changing tables for longer outings
- Research backup transportation options if equipment fails during adventures
Your Summer Safety Checklist
Before Every Outing:
- Check weather forecast and plan accordingly
- Ensure equipment is fully charged and functioning
- Pack emergency cooling supplies and extra water
- Apply sunscreen and dress appropriately
- Inform someone of your plans and expected return
During Activities:
- Stay in shaded areas when possible
- Take regular breaks for cooling and hydration
- Monitor yourself for signs of overheating
- Test surfaces before contact
- Keep emergency supplies easily accessible
After Activities:
- Clean equipment of debris and moisture
- Store equipment in cool, dry locations
- Recharge batteries promptly
- Check for any heat-related damage
Making Summer Memories Safely
Summer should be a time of enjoyment and outdoor adventures, not worry about safety risks. With proper preparation, the right equipment, and smart decision-making, you can make the most of summer’s beautiful weather while staying safe and protecting your mobility equipment.
Remember, the goal isn’t to avoid summer activities—it’s to approach them thoughtfully and prepared. By following these guidelines and listening to your body, you can create wonderful summer memories while maintaining your health and safety.
Ready to upgrade your summer mobility experience? Contact Mobility Plus Northfield for equipment accessories, maintenance services, and expert advice on staying safe and comfortable during summer adventures. We’re here to help you enjoy every moment of the warm weather ahead.
Mobility Plus Northfield
