Department of Human Services

For immediate release: October 15, 2002

For More Information: Gaye Mattke, (605) 773-4644 or Toll Free at 800-265-9684

October 15 - White Cane Safety Day

(Pierre) The white cane is both a powerful symbol and a simple tool. For millions of individuals who are blind or visually impaired it can be the key to greater mobility, giving them information about their surroundings and allowing them to travel safely whether crossing the street or crossing the country. 

For those who are sighted, the white cane shows that people who are blind or visually impaired have the ability, the desire, and the right to participate in every aspect of life. It is also a reminder, whether as pedestrians or drivers, we should respond with care and courtesy to people using a white cane. For all of us, the white cane symbolizes the independence every citizen needs and deserves if he or she is to contribute fully to society.

On October 6, 1964, the Congress, by joint resolution designated October 15 of each year as "White Cane Safety Day".

Our annual observance of White Cane Safety Day gives us the opportunity not only to celebrate the accomplishments of those who use the white cane, but also to renew our commitment to removing those barriers, both physical and attitudinal, that prevent people with disabilities from reaching their full potential. It is a time to educate and bring awareness to the public.

The South Dakota Department of Human Services Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired, serves approximately 1500 South Dakotan’s who are blind or visually impaired each year.  "The safety of these individuals as pedestrians is a vitally important issue for all of us to keep in mind, it's not only a matter of awareness, but it is the law." Secretary Oldenkamp said.

Here are some things to remember:

• A white cane is used to identify a person who is blind or visually impaired in all fifty states and most countries around the world.   
• Many individuals who are visually impaired use a white cane to ensure safety in travel.   
• Operators of all vehicles are required to come to a complete stop when a pedestrian with a raised or extended white cane or being conducted by a dog guide undertakes to cross any public street or thoroughfare, under penalty of law.   
• Under penalty of law, only people who are blind or visually impaired are allowed to carry or use a white cane.

            For more information regarding Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired call: (605) 773-4644, or Toll Free at (800) 265-9684, or visit on line at: www.state.sd.us/dhs/Sbvi .