BENTON HARBOR — The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office is offering women’s self-defense classes through R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) Systems.

Classes are free to attend, but require pre-registration. Classes will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 23, April 24 and April 26 at the Berrien County Health Department, 2149 E. Napier Ave. Benton Harbor, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. May 21, May 22 and May 24 at the New Buffalo Township Library, 33 N. Thompson St. New Buffalo.

R.A.D. is a comprehensive, personal safety course for women focusing on awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance.

Safety and survival in today’s world requires a definite course of action organizers said. The R.A.D. System offers realistic defense techniques and provides women with the knowledge to make an educated decision about resistance strategies they said.

R.A.D. is not a martial arts program. It is a basic self-defense program that any woman, regardless of age or physical ability can learn.

Classes involve three evening sessions totaling 12 hours. All sessions must be completed to attain an official R.A.D. certification.

Classes are open to females ages 16 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and waiver must be signed.

To pre-register, or for more information, please call (269) 983-7111, ext. 7715, or email RAD@berriencounty.org.