"Do"s & "Don't"s
When you meet a blind person
Don't -
Shout when you speak to us, we can't see but our hearing is fine.
Do -
Touch us on the arm or use our names when addressing us. This lets us know you are speaking to us and not someone else in the room.
Don't -
Grab us to lead us. Allow us to take your arm when we are walking together.
Do -
Give specific directions like "the book is five feet to your right" as opposed to saying "the book is over there."
Don't -
Pet or distract our Guide Dogs. They are not pets, they are working companions on whom we depend.
Do -
Direct your questions directly to us. We do not need to have someone else tell you what we want to eat, etc.
Don't -
Be afraid to use words like "blind" or "see". Our eyes may not work but it is still nice to see you.
Do -
Treat us as individuals. Blind people come in all shapes, sizes and colors. We each have our own strong points and weaknesses, just like everyone else.
