Crime safety, how you can protect yourself

Grand Junction police say violent crime statistics go up and down from year to year.

Although one was accidental, law enforcement has dealt with two gun-related incidents just this week.

Kate Porras, PIO for GJPD, says, “We don't see a large number of shootings in Grand Junction or in our area, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen."

Violent crime numbers are up, but when you compare the statistics to the last five years the increase isn't all that large.

Still, the police department urges caution.

"One of the best things you can do is be careful about the people you choose to be with and always be mindful of the situations that you put yourself in," Porras says,

Jeff Mages agrees. He’s a local martial arts instructor, who says in his experience knowing self defense can help prevent violent crime.

"Attackers will generally go for somebody in a weaker posture. They’re looking for kind of that weaker prey,” Mages said. “Self defense kind of allows you to carry yourself confidently so you are less likely to get attacked. I think that is something everyone needs to have."

Students at Martial Arts Research Systems of Colorado are taught to only use martial arts for self defense.

In classes they learn how to verbalize if they're being attacked, something he calls verbal judo.

"Be loud, make yourself known, and then people are less likely to attack you,” Mages said.

If something does happen police say to alert them right away.

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