The R.A.D. System is a program of realistic self-defense techniques for women. The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, then progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training.

• R.A.D. Brochure

Why R.A.D.?

• Every minute in the U.S., there are 1.3 forcible rapes of adult women. That's 78 each hour, 1,871 each day, 56,916 each month, 683,000 every year.
• 13% of adult American women have survived at least one forcible rape in their lifetime.
• 1 out of 4 college women reported being sexually assaulted sometime during their four years of school.
• Women who are forceful about resisting a would-be rapist are less likely to be raped and less likely to be injured than those who resist weakly, or those who do not resist at all.

Class Schedule

Classes will be scheduled every three months throughout the year. As demand for the class increases, classes will be scheduled more frequently. Check the Franklin Police Department's website for class dates and locations.

If you are an employer or organization and would like to offer this program to your female employees or members (with a minimum of 10 attendees), arrangements can be made to schedule a class at your location or at the Franklin Police Department. We can conform to your schedule and the class is FREE of charge!

For more information, to sign up for a class, or to schedule a class, please contact Officer Rose Steagall at (615) 794-2513, ext. 7920.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do you need any prior experience to attend this class? Do I need to be in top physical shape to participate? No. This program is designed for the average woman with no previous experience or background in physical skills training.
2. What is the cost to attend the program? The program ia FREE!!!! The Franklin Police Department offers this program as a service to the community.
3. Can I bring my teenage daughter with me? Yes. It is very common, and encouraged, for mothers and daughters to attend the program together. In addttion to developing and enhancing their options in self defense, it seems to be a great bonding experience... and they have a great practice partner!
4. How long is the program? The program is 12 hours total, and is usually split into 4 three-hour sessions. The class starts with lecture, progresses to hands-on individual training, and then finishes up with aggressor simulation training.