An accomplished martial artist will lead a series of free seminars to enhance residents’ safety and awareness.

Bob Smith, an eighth degree black belt in Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate, will facilitate 12 seminars, organised by the Ministry of National Security, throughout the island.

The ministry said: “Participants will learn how to recognise potential risks, respond appropriately to threatening situations and apply simple strategies to reduce vulnerability in everyday environments.

“The seminars will include interactive discussions and practical demonstrations focused on prevention, awareness and confidence building.”

Mr Smith is Bermuda’s chief instructor for the International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Federation and served as president of the Bermuda Martial Arts Commission, the Bermuda Karate-Do Federation and the Bermuda Martial Arts Federation.

The ministry said: “With decades of experience in both martial arts instruction and defensive tactics training, Mr Smith brings practical, real-world insight to the subject of personal safety and protection.”

Michael Weeks, the minister, added: “Personal safety starts with awareness, these seminars are about giving residents practical knowledge that can make a real difference in everyday situations.

“This initiative is part of a broader effort to empower the public with information and skills.

“When people have more knowledge, they feel more confident in their ability to protect themselves, their home and others, and I hope that the public takes advantage of these very instructive and informative seminars to enhance the safety in the wider community.”

Anyone interested in the hour-long seminars, which will take place at various public schools between February 23 and April 29 starting at 6pm, should register via martialarts.bm/personalsafety.