A Step in the Right Direction - WVU to Offer Self-Defense Training

Not armed self defense, but self-defense training. WVU to offer self-defense training to students, faculty and staff

The West Virginia University Police Department is hoping to provide a little extra confidence for those lacking—or hoping to refine—their self-defense skills.

Not even any mention of pepper spray, let alone fast-moving lead. But at least they admit that you cannot rely on the state - or in this case campus police - to be everywhere all the time. You are responsible for your own safety.

Participants will learn about the skills needed to recognize a threat, escape an attack and get to a safe place to call for help. Specifically, the training will go over striking techniques, takedowns and escape holds and will provide information on developing situational awareness.

That runs counter to everything these students have been told their whole lives. Maybe it is a sign that reality is starting to impinge on the fallacy that "The world is a safe place" that these kids have been taught.

Now, West Virginia University is not in a Blue City. It is about a 70 mile drive south of Pittsburgh, PA, or about 200 mile drive west of Washington, D.C. Still, it is a university, and they are admitting that the government can't take care of you. It is important to recognize a win, no matter how small. And granted, this is a small victory.