Protective techniques are designed to be use to protect one when traveling indoors or outdoors. There are several different ways one can protect them when they are traveling. There are two techniques called the upper and lower protective techniques.
The upper protective technique is to protect individuals from overhanging dangers that a cane may not detect. Either arm is extended in front of the face or upper chest area. The elbow is bent and the palm is facing away from the face. The arm should be extended approximately six to twelve inches away from the face. The traveler then can detect doors, walls, cabinets, outdoor overhanging trees or branches, etc… The lower protective technique is to detect things waist down. The arm is extended diagonally across one’s midline. The palm should face towards the body and be approximately six to twelve inches away from the individual. The traveler can use this technique to detect chairs, tables, desks, beds, etc… The techniques can be used individually or together. They can also be use in conjunction with a cane in the opposite hand. Protective techniques are meant to be used temporarily to detect immediate danger in one’s pathway. Once the object is found, the arm can be lowered.
A final tool that can be used is trailing. Trailing can be use while walking along a wall, fence, building line, or any straight pathway. The object of trailing is to keep a straight line of travel and to help find objects along the pathway. When trailing, one’s arm is extended along the wall, approximately one foot, in front of them. The fingertips should be curled to protect from door jams and other hazards along the way. One should then slide their arm along the wall. Again, this technique can be used alone or in conjunction with a cane or other protective techniques. Hopefully, these safety techniques will come in handy on your next trip near or far!
