The Caddo Sheriff's Office will host the first session of a self-defense course for disabled citizens from 9 a.m. to noon August 23 at the Sheriff's Regional Training Academy, said Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator.

The first session, which is mandatory for all course participants, will discuss the vulnerability of disabled citizens and address state laws as they apply to self defense, protecting yourself in your home, and carrying a concealed weapon.

Additional sessions will cover new topics over the next four weeks. They include: Situational Awareness and Chemical Agents, from 9 to noon August 25; Basic Self-Defense Techniques, from 1-4 p.m. September 9; Stationary and Moving Self-Defense Techniques, from 1-4 p.m. September 14; and Firearms Safety and Proficiency, from 8 a.m. to noon September 22. Only session one is mandatory. Participants can attend any or all of sessions two through five.

All courses have been adapted for citizens who are disabled and are confined to wheelchairs, walkers, or have limited mobility.

Each session will be taught at the Caddo Sheriff's Training Academy, 15639 Hwy. 1 South. Courses are free but pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, call Andrea Samuel or Capt. Kenny Sanders at 681-0735.