October 19, 2022

Self-Defense Classes for Women Will Be Offered Again This Fall by Montgomery County Commission for Women


The Montgomery County Commission for Women this fall will again offer in-person S.A.F.E. (Self-defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange) self-defense courses for women. The introductory seminars, which will be presented at four locations, are two-hour classes for women age 13-and-over.

The classes are being in-person after being held virtually over the past two years due to the COVID-19 health crisis. They will be taught by instructors certified in Rape Aggression Defense (RAD).

The seminars, which will cost $12 per participant, are exclusively for women and require preregistration to participate. The classes will include training on risk, crime awareness and prevention. Participants will be given a 13-piece student folio with information on how to reduce the risk of exposure to violence and how to escape violence. Participants also will learn some physical aspects of self-defense.

The self-defense seminars will be offered from 7- 9 p.m. at each of the locations.

The seminar schedule:
  • Thursday, Oct. 27: Aspen Hill Library, 4407 Aspen Hill Rd., Rockville.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 8: Marilyn J. Praisner (Burtonsville) Library, 14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 22: Long Branch Library, 8800 Garland Ave, Silver Spring.
  • Thursday, Dec.15: Aspen Hill Library, 4407 Aspen Hill Rd., Rockville.
Women ages 13-17 are welcomed to participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult woman who is also registered for the class. For more information on the classes and to register for a session, click here.

A men’s self-defense class also is available, but is not currently being offered by the Commission for Women. Those interested in a men’s class should call 240-777-8300.

For more information about the Commission for Women, visit Home - CFW (montgomerycountymd.gov) or call 240-777-8300.