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University Police offers free training resources, hosts self-defense training

Self-Defense Training

The WVU Police Department provides our campus community with a variety of free training resources designed to offer information and tools to protect yourself in case of emergency.

UPD offers three main trainings: active shooter preparedness, verbal de-escalation and self-defense:

Active Shooter training was developed to provide participants with guidance on how to prepare for and respond to active shooter crisis situations. While we never want anyone to be in the presence of an active shooter, our University community must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to stay as safe as possible. This training can be customized to meet your group’s needs, such as focusing on a specific area of campus or building you may frequently work or study in.

• The Verbal De-escalation course teaches the skills needed to successfully mitigate tense situations during conflicts. Whether you often encounter tough conversations or want to gain more confidence during interpersonal conflicts, this training provides participants with knowledge to create a safe environment for all participants to feel heard, seen and acknowledged.

P.R.O.T.E.C.T. is an immersive self-defense training that uses hands-on demonstrations to provide participants with the skills needed to recognize a threat, escape an attack and get to a safe place to call for help. Participants will learn striking techniques, takedowns and escape holds and will gain information on developing situational awareness.

Trainings are available to campus groups at no cost. If interested, submit a training request for your campus group.

UPD also hosts open trainings on select dates to provide additional training opportunities for those who may not have the opportunity to participate in a training with a campus group.

UPD will host the semester’s first open P.R.O.T.E.C.T. training from 5 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, in the Student Health Building, Room 101, located near the Student Rec Center. Faculty, staff, students and Morgantown community members are welcome to attend. UPD recommends that participants wear comfortable, athletic clothing. Space is limited, and registration is required. Reserve your spot.