With the shopping season almost in full swing, those out and about are urged to keep an extra eye on their surroundings. 

To give back to the community, Lee Green, owner and instructor at Karate World, is offering his annual women’s self-defense class Friday, Nov. 21 at 6 p.m.

“Every year, Karate World tries to give back to the community during the holiday season, and that’s our way of giving back,” Green said. “We’re trying to have the women and men be aware of their surroundings. The holiday season is approaching. It gets so dangerous during that time.”

Green has been a certified karate instructor for more than 25 years and worked in law enforcement for most of that time as well.

“We want people to be able to protect themselves,” Green said. “I would advise all females to take some type of self-defense class.”

Recently, Green had a former male student tell him that because of a class he took at Karate World, he was able to keep someone from hijacking his car.

“The community has come out and supported me for 25 years, and I think that’s the least I can do is give back,” Green said.

During the class, women will learn pressure points, takedowns and getaways and how to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

“We have all types of women who come to the class, and we try to make them feel comfortable,” Green said. “I try to have other female instructors here with me.”

There are several tips that Green gives out during his class to help everyone stay safe.

“Try not to walk around with your purse,” Green said. “Try to keep all personal items unseen in your vehicle and try to park in a place where there’s always light and never go shopping at night alone.”

Another tip is for people to carry a whistle and blow it or scream loudly if they feel threatened or scared of their surroundings.

For more information about the class or to sign up, call Karate World at 872-1423, or visit them in the Selma Mall after 5 p.m.