Key points of self defense RAD Keychain advance self defense course By Katy England edge staff writer kengland@themaineedge.com BANGOR – Where the Basic Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) course showed me ways to defend myself, the advanced keychain defense course gave me some new ways to pack a mean punch. The class was headed up by Catherine Rumsey, who is also a sergeant at the Bangor Police Department. Other instructors included (those nice people). The class opened with an overview of what it means to defend yourself. Since these techniques are powerful and potentially dangerous, it is made clear that you are only to use them to defend against an attack, sexual assault or abduction situation. Rumsey also explained about the kubaton, which is a small baton that attaches to your keychain. She explained how to grip it and the basics of how it is used. One of my favorite parts was that the baton, which came from the Monadnock company, was called the "Persuader." Awesome. The class was instructed on how using the keychain can change your basic stance and new vulnerable spots to aim for in addition to the known eyes, nose, throat, fingers, groin, shins and top of the foot. Most of our strikes would be aimed at the side of the face. We were shown various strikes and practiced them slowly, then at speed, and then we got to test our skills by striking empty one-gallon spring water containers with the batons with keys on the end. This was cathartic and fun, despite the keys whacking my knuckles. Some ladies were able to cut holes into the plastic containers. "I think it's great," said S.W.G., one of the other women taking the course. "It's empowering. Being able to put holes in the jugs. Awesome." Rumsey said that some women actually enjoy this course because having a tool can add a new sense of confidence. "Some people prefer to have and impact tool," she said. "We can give them that tool. Women interested in taking this course will have to take the basic RAD course. Rumsey said that there will be another Basic course in April 10 and 17 from 11 a.m. till 5 p.m. at the Bangor Police Department. For more information, call Rumsey at the Bangor Police Department at 947-7382.