Police offer residents free public safety and self-defense training

Amidst consecutive days of high-profile shootings, robberies, murders, carjackings, home invasions and other troubling crimes throughout metro Atlanta, law enforcement leaders are pleading with residents to become vigilant about getting the skills, information and techniques needed to protect and defend themselves. In recent weeks, news headlines have revealed that people are being arbitrarily victimized by violence across the Atlanta area.

Leaders are urging all citizens to attend one of the free emergency public safety briefings and self-defense training 10 a.m. Saturday at The Enon Church, 3550 Enon Road, Atlanta.

Police will be conducting similar exercises in two other metro locations as part of the new One Congregation One Precinct initiative. Residents will be taught potentially life-saving skills and given information about the exact crimes that are occurring in their specific neighborhoods, the locations and typical times these crimes are happening, and what they must do to best protect themselves.

Law enforcement officials will also provide information about factors that are fueling surges in violent criminal acts and critical strategies for personal safety and self-defense.

In DeKalb County, the event will take place at Clairmont Presbyterian Church, 1994 Clairmont Road, Decatur; in Gwinnett, the session will be at Salem Missionary Baptist Church, 4700 Church Street, NW, Lilburn.

Information: 404-405-7000 or www.movementforward.org