1. I ensure that my better ear is towards the speaker.
2. I like to practice lipreading from the side in my lipreading class because it’s not always possible to be facing the speaker if we’re walking together.
3. I walk slowly so that it is easier to turn and watch.
4. I stop and face the speaker if they are talking and I stop if I want to ask a question.
5. If it’s windy or there’s traffic noise and I want to converse I find a doorway or quiet spot. I cannot hear if there is too much background noise.
6. If I’m out with someone I know and we want to talk I suggest that we go home and talk in comfort.
7. I explain to people that I can’t watch where I’m going and lipread them at the same time and suggest we stop for a coffee and chat in a quiet café.
8. I walk on the inside of the pavement where I find it is quieter and it also means that if I’m talking to someone I’m less likely to end up in the road because I was looking at them instead of where I was going.
9. I try not to spend a long time in conversation outside because of the noise. I just exchange a few pleasantries before making my excuses. If it’s important, I suggest that we find a quiet spot.
10. If people speak clearly and communicate well I can enjoy conversation outside. If I don’t understand we stop talking and chat.
11. One person said, “I walk towards the oncoming traffic so that I don’t step into the traffic coming from behind.”
The following is taken from the Highway Code concerning Pedestrians (which can be seen by clicking on the following link: www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Highwaycode/DG_070108 )
“If there is no pavement keep to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic. You should take extra care and
- be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light
- keep close to the side of the road
It may be safer to cross the road well before a sharp right-hand bend so that oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you. Cross back after the bend.”
12. When walking with a companion I seek out quieter routes so that we can talk.