Kristi Taylor, the instructor of Wen-Do Women’s Self Defence program in Ithaca, gave advice I never expected to hear. “If you are ever in danger, scream ‘fire’ instead of ‘help,’” Taylor...

Many women at the college said they regularly carry self-defense tools like pepper spray, dog and bear spray, Mace and pocket knives to provide an extra sense of security when they go on runs, walk around at night or visit unfamiliar places alone.