The MD of Bonnyville is giving women the tools they need to protect themselves.
As part of the Rural Crime Prevention Program, the MD has organized a course that offers workshops for female residents over the age of 12. The Ladies Self-Defence Course teaches local women different ways to deal with a dangerous situation.
The class was held for the first time on June 7 at Iron River School, and the comments the MD heard from residents was enough to organize another.
“I received very good feedback,” expressed Chris Garner, director of public safety for the MD. “Participants said they learned lots of easy options for them to try, and they could see themselves using these techniques in an emergency situation.”
MD peace officer Rachelle Rupp instructed the course. She said the first class was full, and she wasn’t surprised when all 20 spots were taken right away when the MD announced there would be another course.
“I knew the classes would be popular because of previous interest from the community, but I didn’t think it would go like wild-fire,” she said.
Participants in the first class ranged in ages from as young as 13. According to Rupp, there were a number of mothers and daughters that took the class together.
She believes it’s important for women to be able to protect themselves.
Garner said these classes are giving participants the confidence they need to protect themselves, while teaching them hands-on techniques.
Rupp expects the program will be recurring over the next couple of months, and hopes to offer some level two courses once they have enough members of the community that have successfully completed level one.
“Level two classes put a person into a scenario where they can use techniques they learned from the level one,” she explained.
Before expanding, the MD wanted to see how the program was received. They chose schools as the perfect location because the equipment they need, such as gym mats, was readily available.
The plan is to eventually offer the courses at different locations across Lakeland.
The self-defence classes are one of the programs offered to MD residents through the rural crime prevention program.
The next level one class will be taking place at Ardmore School on July 12. For more information on upcoming classes call 780-812-3332.
