Rebecca Tania
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “safety” in sign language. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey the concept of safety through sign language. While regional variations exist, we will focus on commonly used signs that are widely understood across different sign language communities. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of sign language together!
Formal Way to Say Safety in Sign Language
When expressing the concept of safety formally in sign language, the following sign can be used:
Sign: SAFETY
Take your dominant hand and form a flat handshape. Place it on your non-dominant palm, then move both hands simultaneously forward and away from your body in a protective manner.
Informal Ways to Say Safety in Sign Language
Informal signs in sign language often encompass gestures that are more intuitive or evolve naturally within a specific deaf community. Here are a few informal signs commonly used to convey the idea of safety:
Informal Sign 1: PROTECT
The sign for “protect” is a fundamental and versatile sign used to express safety in various contexts. To sign “protect,” follow these steps:
- Extend your non-dominant arm forward, palm facing upward.
- With your dominant hand, form an “X” handshape and place it on the top of your non-dominant forearm.
- Gently move your dominant hand toward your body to complete the sign, symbolizing protection.
Tip: The sign for “protect” can also be used to convey safety during specific activities, such as wearing protective gear during sports or following safety protocols in various situations.
Informal Sign 2: SAFE
The sign for “safe” conveys the idea of being secure or out of harm’s way. To sign “safe,” follow these steps:
- Place the fingertips of your dominant hand near your non-dominant shoulder.
- Keeping your palm facing inward, move your hand down to your non-dominant side while maintaining a relaxed handshape.
Tip: The sign for “safe” is often used by parents to communicate reassurance to their children or to inquire about someone’s well-being.
Examples of Usage
Now, let’s look at some examples of how to incorporate these signs into everyday conversations:
Example 1:
Imagine you’re at a construction site and want to let someone know it’s safe to enter a specific area. You can sign “protect” while gesturing toward that area to communicate the message effectively.
Example 2:
Suppose you’re talking to a friend or loved one and want to ensure they feel secure after a situation. Signing “safe” while maintaining eye contact can provide reassurance and support.
Example 3:
If you’re discussing emergency preparedness protocols, utilizing the formal sign for “safety” can emphasize the importance of being prepared for potential hazards.
By incorporating these signs into your sign language vocabulary, you will be able to confidently express the concept of safety in various contexts.
Regional Variations
While sign language is a rich and diverse form of communication, regional variations can arise within different deaf communities. It’s essential to remember that the signs provided in this guide are commonly understood across many sign language communities. Nonetheless, it’s always a good practice to familiarize yourself with local variations if you are in a specific region or interacting primarily with a specific community.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned how to say “safety” in sign language, both formally and informally. These signs will enable you to express the concept of safety effectively in various situations. Remember, sign language is an inclusive and vibrant form of communication, so continue exploring and expanding your knowledge to fully engage with the deaf community.
