Safety
Another important thing to remember, before you go out is safety. But you need to find a balance between safety and risk, as being "safe" or overly safe all of the time can restrict your fun.
There are ways to make yourself safer, without being frightened to leave the house.
Life is full of risks and living is about learning when to be cautious and when to be more adventurous.
For example, let's say you use a wheelchair (powered or manual) for mobility. Things you can do to increase your safety are:
- Always make sure your tyres are pumped up and, if you use a power-wheelchair, ensure the batteries are charged
- If you can, carry a mobile phone with you at all times. If something happens you can call for help
- Carry enough money for the taxi fare home
Another tip is that, if you break-down in your wheelchair, the RACQ will collect you and take you home.
Having said this, it is important to remember that you can go out late at night or go on journeys of joyous exploration. Your disability should only make you careful and thoughtful. It should not restrict your fun.
Personal Story
I am a woman in my mid-thirties, who uses a power-wheelchair. I frequently go out alone – day or night. I always carry my mobile and I usually know where most of my workers are. I never have to call my workers and I am often home late at night. I also travel long distances in my power-wheelchair.
However, I don't talk to anyone on the street. I always drive relatively fast and purposefully. These things help make me to be safe.
From this personal story, you can see that safety is not about not having fun. Safety is about finding ways, to have fun, that are not dangerous.
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