Be aware or your surrondings is good advice , but…….

ladies, my advice to you: have a self defense weapon that can back up that “NO”!
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Self-Defense Rule No. 1: Don’t be a target
By ADRIANA CORDOVI
[email protected]

A woman walks down an empty street, her eyes to the ground, a cellular phone to her ear.

The attacker approaching her sees only one thing: opportunity.

That’s one example Coral Gables Police Sgt. Raul Pedroso described to more than 20 women participating in the Rape Aggression Defense program.

”They’re looking for a person who’s not aware,” he said of the attackers. “They’re not looking for a fight; they’re looking for an easy target.”

But if the woman is aware of her surroundings, she can put a defensive technique into play. She can yell, ”No!” at the attacker.

Setting off your car alarm usually doesn’t work, Pedroso said. No one pays them heed.

Those were some of the tips he gave Monday during the first of five classes in rape defense at the Coral Gables police station, 2801 Salzedo St. The program, which costs $50, is designed to teach women some strategies and techniques to fend off sexual attacks.

”As a police officer, I recognize that crimes happen every day and a lot of women are not prepared for a physical attack,” Pedroso said.

”Nowadays one has to be aware of the surroundings and be prepared,” said student Margrit Algeciras.

On the last day, students will fight their way out of a simulated attack.

”At the end, you’re going to feel this power,” Pedroso said.

As the class ended Monday, Pedroso directed students to repeat three times: “I will survive.”