In the wake of a disturbing attack on a woman rollerblading in Miami Beach, the Coral Gables Police Department is responding through education and empowerment. Offering a self-defense course aptly named "Fight Like a Girl," the initiative aims to arm women with the skills to protect themselves in face of potential dangers. As reported by NBC Miami, the course recently welcomed participants, including Jessica Castillo, marking her second attendance.
"I hope she's okay, it's really scary, I used to live in the beach," Castillo recounted her feelings about the incident and her rationale for taking the course, "It's always something that’s in the back of your mind, and like having definitive techniques and strategies to help defend yourself always helps," she told NBC Miami. Sergeant Alex Escobar, who runs the class for the Coral Gables PD, emphasizes the importance of vigilance. He advises women to stay alert, and, if intuition signals danger, to trust that instinct and seek safety or assistance promptly.
"Always be aware of your surroundings, please look around, try to stay off your phones and if you have to go somewhere, to the grocery store, just make sure that if you don't feel comfortable, please ask for help from the manager, ask for help from someone," Escobar highlighted the importance of environmental awareness and seeking help when feeling uneasy. This advice comes from a professional perspective, aimed at fostering a sense of control and preparedness among participants, as per NBC Miami.
Registration details for those interested were provided by Atelier des Vignerons, directing potential attendees to call (305) 442-1600 and ask for Community Affairs to join the class.
