Lady Beware classes planned

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain has announced the 2009 schedule for “Lady Beware” classes.

These three-day sessions are free of charge and are designed to teach women the basics of self defense and provide an introduction to firearm safety and use.  Participants spend a full Saturday and a Thursday evening at the Sheriff’s Office Training Center in Pearl River, and a second Saturday at our firearms range at Camp Villere in Slidell.

 The course begins with an overview of crime trends in St. Tammany Parish: who commits crimes and what crimes they commit, rapist profiles, etc.  Participants also learn practical techniques such as situational awareness and response strategies including self-defense and firearms techniques.  Other topics include safety in the home, at work, in public and in your automobile.  On Thursday night, participants will engage in interactive scenario-based training.

All course materials will be provided at no cost, including weapons at the range for those who don’t own firearms (.38 or .357 only).

 Classes are planned for June, August, October and December.  For information contact Dy. Christine Hilby at 985-276-1020 or Lt. Joe Way at joeway@stpso.com.