The Select Board used its first meeting of the month to remind residents that October is White Cane Awareness Month. The idea is to remind drivers that those using white canes have the right of way at street crossings.

“The white cane allows a person who is blind to travel independently. In 1931, Lions Clubs began promoting the use of white canes for people who are blind as a national identification program,” said Select Board Chair Shawn McDonald.

“White Cane Law states that all motorists, when they see a pedestrian that uses a dog guide or a white cane at a street crossing, must come to a complete stop,” he said.

The month coincides with White Cane Safety Day, a national observance enacted by Lyndon. B Johnson in 1964. White Cane Safety Day is Oct. 15.

McDonald read some of the other guidelines of White Cane Awareness Month aimed at pedestrians wishing to engage with a visually impaired person. These include:

• When in doubt, ask if the person needs assistance.
• Do not grab the person, cane or dog guide.
• Do not pet a dog guide. Most dog guides are working and should not be petted since it can be distracting for the dog.

More guidelines for drivers can be accessed at the official website.

There will be a celebration for white cane users at the State House in Boston on Oct. 13. White cane users and guide dog users are encouraged to bring friends and family to raise awareness.

McDonald also asked that drivers exercise caution this school year.

“I want to remind people who drive that, once the school buses have stopped and stuck out their [stop] signs, please stop," said McDonald.

“If you see any vehicles that do not adhere to this, please contact the police department and let them know that there’s a problem at the stop,” he said.