Changing Lives One Dog At A Time
White Cane Day – Celebrating Independence & Awareness
October 15
Every year on October 15, we celebrate White Cane Safety Day — a day dedicated to recognising the independence, confidence, and safety of people who are blind or visually impaired.
This important day was first established in 1964 by U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson to raise awareness about individuals who use a white cane — a simple yet powerful tool that represents freedom, mobility, and equality.
🦯 The white cane, introduced in the 1930s, allows visually impaired people to navigate their world safely and independently. It also signals to motorists and pedestrians to offer space and respect.
What About South Africa?
Here’s something surprising — South Africa has no specific traffic law protecting a blind or partially sighted pedestrian using a white cane or guide dog.
In contrast, in the United States, it’s a legal requirement to stop or yield to a person with a white cane or guide dog. Failing to do so can lead to fines or even jail time (under Vehicle Code #21963).
Perhaps it’s time we start having this conversation here too — to raise awareness, promote safety, and advocate for equal rights on our roads.
🚗 Safety Tips for Sighted People
You can make a real difference in the life of someone who is blind or visually impaired. Here’s how:
✅ Stop at least 1.5 metres from pedestrian crossings.
Visually impaired pedestrians often rely on the sound of your engine to judge the crossing distance.
🚫 Don’t hoot at someone using a white cane — it can be confusing or frightening.
💬 Ask before you help. Always get permission before offering assistance.
🤝 If help is accepted, offer your arm (just above the elbow). The person will walk beside you, following your lead safely and confidently.
🧭 Orientation & Mobility – Regaining Confidence
Losing vision can feel disorienting — but it doesn’t have to mean losing your independence.
At Smart Service Dog, our Orientation & Mobility (O&M) specialists are here to help you navigate safely, confidently, and freely.
We’ll teach you how to:
- Understand your surroundings (orientation)
- Move safely and independently (mobility)
- Use tools like a white cane or prepare for guide dog training
Together, we’ll help you regain confidence, independence, and freedom in your day-to-day life.
💪 Navigating Independence
Our team works closely with both individuals and caregivers — ensuring everyone learns the right techniques for safe travel and effective communication.
Because mobility isn’t just about getting from A to B — it’s about reclaiming your confidence, freedom, and joy of movement.
📞 Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step toward independence?
Call us at 087 822 1144 or 081 270 4672 to schedule a free appointment with one of our Orientation & Mobility Specialists.
Not yet a Smart Service Dog student?
No problem — we’ll start by setting up a Low Vision Rehabilitation evaluation to get you moving confidently again.
Smart Service Dog
Empowering independence — one step, one cane, one partnership at a time. 🦮💙