October 15th is White Cane Safety Day! During the month of October, join us in celebrating the White Cane by learning more about its history, law, services, and events in Massachusetts!
Since 1964 by Joint Resolution of Congress, October 15th is recognized nationally as "White Cane Safety Day". The white cane is an important tool and symbol of independence for individuals with blindness. Read the History of White Cane Day.
All states, including Massachusetts, and many other countries have White Cane laws, which allow pedestrians, who are legally blind and carrying a cane, the right of way at street crossings. According to the Massachusetts White Cane Law all motorists, upon seeing a pedestrian who uses a dog guide or white cane crossing or attempting to cross a way, must come to a full stop. It is important to know, review, and share with others details of this law. Review the full text of the Massachusetts White Cane Law.
A Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) is the professional who can assist an individual to obtain a white cane and learn cane (and other orientation and mobility) techniques to travel safely and independently. Details, brochures of service, and referral forms for all Orientation and Mobility Services, including for white cane use, environmental assessments and more through the MCB/DDS Partnership by DDS Region can be found by clicking below:
White Cane Safety Day 2022:
Since 1964 by Joint Resolution of Congress, October 15th is recognized nationally as "White Cane Safety Day". The white cane is an important tool and symbol of independence for individuals with blindness. Read the History of White Cane Day.
All states, including Massachusetts, and many other countries have White Cane laws, which allow pedestrians, who are legally blind and carrying a cane, the right of way at street crossings. According to the Massachusetts White Cane Law all motorists, upon seeing a pedestrian who uses a dog guide or white cane crossing or attempting to cross a way, must come to a full stop. It is important to know, review, and share with others details of this law. Review the full text of the Massachusetts White Cane Law.
A Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) is the professional who can assist an individual to obtain a white cane and learn cane (and other orientation and mobility) techniques to travel safely and independently. Details, brochures of service, and referral forms for all Orientation and Mobility Services, including for white cane use, environmental assessments and more through the MCB/DDS Partnership by DDS Region can be found by clicking below:
- DDS Central West Region PDF / DDS Central West Region (text only) RTF
- DDS Metro Region PDF / DDS Metro Region (text only) RTF
- DDS Northeast Region PDF / DDS Northeast (text only) RTF
- DDS Southeast Region PDF / DDS Southeast Region (text only) RTF
White Cane Safety Day 2022: