Women and girls in Flower Mound and Highland Village can sign up for a free, three-hour self-defense class hosted by the Denton County Sheriff's Office on Saturday, Aug. 8, with space limited and registration required.

The Woman's Empowerment Program class runs from 9 a.m. to noon and combines classroom instruction with hands-on training led by law enforcement officers and certified WEP instructors, according to a July 30 announcement in the Cross Timbers Gazette. No prior self-defense experience is required, and participants must be at least 15 years old.

The program, part of Sheriff Tracy Murphree's community outreach efforts, teaches participants to recognize and avoid dangerous situations, read body language and behavioral cues, and build situational awareness. The hands-on portion includes guided practice striking pads and working directly with instructors.

All physical activity is optional.

The Sheriff's Office said the program is designed to meet participants where they are, whether they want to improve personal safety, gain new skills, or try something new in a supportive environment.

A previous WEP session hosted by Lantana Cares in southern Denton County capped enrollment at 60 participants, so interested residents should register early.

How to register

Registration is required. Email [email protected] with your full name and contact information. For questions, call the Denton County Sheriff's Office at 940-349-1552.

The Denton County Sheriff's Office lists the Woman's Empowerment Program as a standing community outreach service open to females ages 15 and older.