What NOT To Do:

•  Do not make decisions for a person who is deaf or hard or hearing.  Let them make their own decisions after they understand what is going on.

•  Do not shout at a person who is deaf or hard of hearing. It is unnecessary and it will not make what you are saying more clear.

•  Do not assume a person can understand complex language through reading lips.

•  If there is an interpreter present, do not talk to the interpreter.  Look directly at the person to whom you are communicating.

•  Avoid chewing gum, smoking, or eating while you are speaking, so your mouth is clear and your hands are not covering what a person needs to see.

What TO Do:

•  Get the person's attention before you begin to talk to them.  Extend your arm, wave your hand, or tap them on the shoulder.

•  Follow the person's cues to language preference: sign language, gesturing, writing or speaking.

•  Speak clearly so the person can understand what you are saying and so he/she can read your lips.

•  Rephrase a sentence or thought instead of repeating something a person may not understand.

•  Offer an interpreter for complex information (e.g. during a job interview, talking to a doctor, or reporting a crime).