A Guide for First Responders Flip Book - Arizona Department of ...

Essential Tips (cont.)
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Be aware that a few people can be both deaf and blind. This combination is rare and has its
own variations of severity.
◦ Print on palm of hand
Spell with block letters onto fl at hand using index fi nger.
▪ Do not lift fi nger until complete letter is formed.
Wipe palm between words.
▪
Etiquette for Blind/Low-vision
• Announce your presence and if others are with you, introduce them as well.
◦ “Hi Bill, this is Bruce and I have Christy and Ken with me.”
Always speak directly to the person, not to his or her escort.
Do NOT shout. The individual is blind, not deaf.
Use a calm tone of voice that projects competence in your ability to assist.
Ask if the person needs help and what type of help. Listen and respond accordingly.
• Never touch a blind person’s cane or service animal. Do not separate a cane or service animal
from the person.
• Ask if the person would like you to escort them.