October is known as Blind Equality Achievement Month. Every year on October 15, the blind celebrate White Cane Day throughout the country. For blind people, the white cane is a tool that helps us get around and live a full and independent life. It also gets us around safely from place to place. White Cane Day is a day for us to increase public awareness and let them know how the blind get around.

Here are a few things you need to know:

• When you see someone with a white cane, don’t try to steer them. Their cane is used to tell them what is around them.
• If somebody is blind, don’t just help them; they will ask if they need help.
• If you do see someone with a white cane, and notice their cane doesn’t detect something then tell them. (Don’t assume that if somebody with a white cane or a guide dog is standing by a person at the corner that the two are together.)
• In all 50 states, you have to yield when you see a long white cane or a guide dog. It is a law while driving. You also have to be at least 10 feet away from the curve.

I hope these tips will help you when you come into contact with individuals with visual disabilities.