The Lee County Sheriff’s Office wants to teach women how to be safe. The SAFE (Self Defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange) class will teach participants how to protect themselves when confronted by strangers.

“With the holiday season right around the corner, it’s important that women know to protect themselves, even in situations as seemingly innocent as walking to your vehicle after shopping,” said Community Relations Manager Stacey Payne.

To date, more than 5,000 women in Lee County have taken advantage of the SAFE class.

All females 13 years of age and older are encouraged to participate.

The class is free of charge, but space is limited. SAFE classes begin November 4 and are offered four times a month at Lee County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters at 14750 Six Mile Cypress Parkway.

The sheriff’s office is also offering a refresher course for women who have participated in the SAFE class previously.

SAFE classes will be offered on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. and on the second and fourth Saturday each month from 10 to 11 a.m.

For more information, or to register, call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 477-1400.You can also contact us by e-mail at: www.communityrelations@sheriffleefl.org.