The Coral Springs Police Department is offering a self-defense program for women over the age of 13. Rape Agression Defense classes are free and are offered at the Northwest Regional Library , 3151 N. University Drive. Upcoming classes will be held for four consecutive Tuesdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. starting Sept. 15.

RAD is a nationally-recognized program designed to teach realistic self-defense techniques to women. The classes build educational and physical skills, which can be used in the practice of self-defense, through emphasis on simple strikes, kicks, blocks, and defensive posture.

The instructional objective of RAD is to develop and enhance the options of self-defense, so they may become viable considerations of the woman who is attacked. This 12-hour comprehensive program seeks to empower women to be able to reduce their likelihood of becoming a victim, while teaching them the skills to survive should they be caught in such a situation.

Space is limited to 20 participants per course. To register, call 954-346-1227 or e-mail pdjl@coralsprings.org.