WHITE CANE SAFETY:
MORE THAN JUST ONE DAY
By Bruce Parkinson
Council Member
White Cane Safety Day 2007 has come and gone. There were events held by low vision groups and organizations that are concerned with white cane safety all around the state. Governor Doyle and numerous mayors issued proclamations. Motorists and communities were reminded that there are people who are blind or visually impaired living and working in the cities and towns where they live.
White cane safety is something that should be observed every day of the year, not just on October 15. Unfortunately, there are far too few motorists who know the white cane law. They won’t learn the law unless some form of public education brings it to their attention.
Another concern is that there are many people who use white canes but who have never had proper training in their use. People who use white canes who have never had orientation and mobility instruction should attempt to get some basic instruction in cane use for their own safety, especially in crossing streets.
Annual White Cane Safety Day is a first step toward educating the general public about independent travel by people who are blind and visually impaired. Thank you to everyone who made White Cane Safety Day 2007 a success, and let’s all work to make the streets safe for white cane users every day of the year.
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