Women's Self-Defense Class


Since 1994 the Vernon Hills Police Department has offered a free two-hour women’s self-defense class to residents of Vernon Hills. The class is offered to female Vernon Hills residents, ages eight and up (children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult). The instructor for the class is Harriet Johnson, a former police officer and an expert in self-defense. Harriet is an exceptional instructor, engaging her students with hands-on techniques.

Class Topics

Some of the topics that are covered in the class are:

  • Basic principles of self-defense
  • Basic principles of survival and awareness
  • Psychology of fear and how to make it work for you
  • Vulnerable areas of the body

Class Time & Date

The date for the 2024 class has not yet been determined. It will be held sometime in June.

If you would like to be placed on a list for a future class, please contact the Crime Prevention Unit via email or by calling 847-247-4889.