Is your Mobility Scooter Ready for the Winter?
Is your mobility scooter prepared for the unpredictable British winter?
If not, then you will be pleased to hear that it is not too late to make the necessary checks to ensure that your vehicle can get you from A to B whatever the weather.
From checking the tyres to charging the batteries, read on to discover 7 steps that you need to take to get your mobility scooter ready for winter.
1. Charge the Batteries
The batteries of your mobility scooter are vulnerable during the colder months of the year, so you need to ensure you are charging them regularly. Even if you are not planning on making any trips in the near future, it is still important that you check the batteries and charge them if needed.
2. Check the Tyres
Tyres are also prone to damage in the winter as adverse weather conditions can increase general wear and tear and lead to punctures.
To avoid getting stuck out and about with a flat tyre, make sure that you check the tyre pressure regularly and always before you head out on a journey.
3. Attach High Visibility Stripes
If you travel during the dark in the winter months, then it is vital that you invest in high visibility stripes for your mobility scooter. These can be attached to your protective rain cover or canopy and will ensure that you can be easily seen by other road users and vehicles.
You can find rain canopies for mobility scooters that come with reflectors on them. Alternatively, headlight bands that cyclists wear can be equally effective.
4. Clean the Scooter
During the winter you should clean your mobility scooter after every use, as dirt and debris can quickly build up and cause untold damage to its key components.
You can clean your mobility scooter with a simple solution of water and soap but avoid using a hard bristled brush as this can damage the body work.
5. Dry the Scooter After Use
If you have been out in your mobility scooter and it has started to rain or snow, then you need to make sure that you thoroughly dry it when you return home.
This helps to prevent rusting which can cause costly damage to your scooter. Ideally, you should invest in a protective covering so that your scooter is protected from the elements.
6. Store in a Dry Space
When your mobility scooter is not in use, you should store it in a dry indoor space where it is not exposed to harsh winter weather conditions.
You can choose to store your mobility scooter in your garage, shed or in a mobility scooter garage.
7. Book a Service
Before winter arrives, it is a good idea to book in your annual mobility scooter service as this will help to identify any issues before you start travelling in poor weather conditions.
You can also ask for advice on further winter maintenance tips for your mobility scooter.
