UMPD Officers Eddie Somarriba and Jose del Valle practice self-defense techniques during training.

As part of ongoing education and training, University of Miami Police Department officers simulated real-life violent assault situations to better understand proper self-defense techniques during potentially life-threatening situations.

“By providing officers with a solid knowledge of physical defense techniques they are able to learn how to avoid panic during a possible violent encounter and can defend themselves effectively and efficiently,” said UMPD Lieutenant Benjamin Hedrick.

In addition to the trainings conducted for current UMPD officers, the department is offering the National Self-Defense Institute’s two-hour S.A.F.E class to University faculty, students, and staff. The classes, which are free, are offered on Wednesday evenings throughout the semester. The next class is Wednesday, February 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Future S.A.F.E classes will be offered on Wednesday, March 7, and Wednesday, April 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Mahoney-Pearson Commons 116 and 118. Participants only need to attend one session. While the course is designed for women, no one will be turned away.

If interested, please email [email protected] with the date that best fits your schedule.