"Personal

weapons," said Det. Debbie Chambers, "do not include a gun or

a knife."

The Fayetteville

policewoman spoke to about 25 persons along with her partner, Lt. Beverly

Trainor, during a recent self-defense class offered by the police department.

They emphasized

a variety of ways to escape from an attacker, using such "personal

weapons" as your head, elbows, knees and feet. A list of 10 options

included using your hand like a claw to rake the eyes and face if attacked

from the front; a punch to the throat with your knuckles; an elbow to

the throat or face; and the old standby, thumbs in the eyes.

While objects

in hour hands can be used as weapons, they can also be used against you

is to keep trying to get away and, after getting loose, to run away quickly,

they said.

The pair said

it was important to always be aware of your surroundings. And when attacked,

it's best not to yell, "help;" instead, yell, "fire, fire!"

They pointed

out that the word "help" sends people in the other direction

but the word "fire" brings people closer to see what is happening.

In the meantime, you've reached them, the attacker sees he or she is outnumbered

and heads in the opposite direction.

The seminar

also focused on security issues both at home and while traveling.

The defense

awareness program is available to any organization. For information phone

Trainor or Chambers at 770-461-4441.

Trainor also

serves as the accreditation manager for the department; 439 standards

must be met to gain national accreditation when the National Accreditation

Board visits in December.