SMYRNA, Ga. — The Smyrna Police Department is helping women and children overcome their fears by encouraging them to learn self-defense.
A large number of people are signing up for a self-defense class in Smyrna.
The high demand is from women and children and this is due to the increase in violent crime.
JaVonda Ware, the instructor for the self-defense classes, said there has been an increase in classes because women are fearful for their daughters.
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“They are fearful for the simplest things. Going to school events. Going to the mall, the grocery store,” said Ware.
Parents say they feel vulnerable at times.
“I just feel really vulnerable getting in and out of my car. Getting car seats and stroller,” said one parent, Julie Closson.
Another parent, Kristen Eubanks, said she just wants her children to be able to protect themselves when they’re out.
Channel 2′s Michelle Newell spoke with Ware and other participants on how they are learning to stay safe.
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Ware said the most important thing when defending yourself is your stance.
“If I walk up to you and I push you, I can’t knock you off balance. Gotcha,” said Ware.
Zoe Rei-Eubanks, a participant, said she feels better knowing she has other ways to defend herself.
“It makes me feel better knowing that I have other ways to defend myself rather than screaming or running away,” said Eubanks.
The program consists of four, three-hour-long classes.
The Smyrna Police Department hopes to spread more awareness about the classes it offers.
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