Over 100 local women turned out to a free Women’s Safety and Self-Defense class on Tuesday held at the UFC Gym in Santa Clarita, where they learned helpful defense moves and women’s safety tips.

The class was hosted by Assemblyman Scott Wilk, R- Santa Clarita, in partnership with the Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita.

“I’m in Sacramento and I get exposed to a lot of issues and we deal with a lot of legislation in Sacramento having to do with domestic violence,” said Wilk. “We decided to offer a program where women can come and learn how to defend themselves, whether it’s a domestic violence situation or someone’s accosting you in the mall.”

The class was taught by two professional coaches from the gym, Alex Coates and Kevin Flagg.

“There is a need for women to learn how to defend themselves,” said Linda Davies, executive director of the Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita, who spoke at the event about what laws are in place to protect women in violent situations or relationships.

One in three girls will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime, often on college campuses, said Davies, noting that women need to be aware and learn how to fight back.

“I run a small business out of my home. My clients come to me and I don’t always know who’s coming”, said Lindsay Schlick, a resident who attended the self-defense class.

Schlick says she owns pepper spray and a taser, and doesn’t walk in public while looking at her phone.

Deputies with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station also participated in the event, and echoed Schlick’s comment by advising women not to walk around distracted by their phones.

It’s important for women to be aware of themselves and their surroundings at all times, said Deputy Heischuber, adding that women need to know that when out in public, they are often a target.

“Since we had such a successful event, we will be hosting another workshop,” said Wilk. “So keep checking back on my social media in the near future.”