By Ashley Wood/reporter
No matter their age or gender, all students should stay alert, watch their surroundings and be prepared mentally and physically, a retired Arlington police officer told a training class Jan. 29.
TCC training coordinator Dwane Kelley gave those three safety rules during Personal Safety and Self-Defense Training on South Campus.
The class teaches civilians the basic and effective techniques of martial arts without the many years of training and prepares people for the possibility of being attacked, Kelley said.
“It is better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it at all,” he said
Both men and women need to follow certain safety tips when walking to and from their cars. People should never dig in their purses or pockets for their keys but should already have them out and ready to quickly get into their vehicles, Kelley said.
Everyone should also be prepared to deal with an active shooter in the building, Kelley said.
“See if there is an accessible evacuation path,” he said. “If not, find a hiding spot, and if in immediate danger, take action against the shooter.”
In the hands-on part of the class, the attendees learned how to break away from wrist grabs, front chokes and side headlocks.
“Practice the defenses during commercial breaks of your favorite television show,” he said. “With practice, it will become second nature.”
Participants such as SE psychology instructor Gerard Mayberry said they benefited from the workshop.
“It was an eye opener,” he said. “Even just learning the basics, it helps me to feel safe.”
This class left the feeling that they had learned a little bit of skill, but it would definitely help, Mayberry said.
Amy Hall, senior office assistant in the SE registrar’s office, was also pleased with the training.
“I feel much more prepared for a future attack now that I have taken this class,” she said.
Kelley said TCC will offer another section of the course later as well as a second part on weapon defense.
“Everyone needs to stay safe and make it home to those you love and ones that love you,” he said.
