Pepper Spray

Pepper Sprays,Effective, Non Lethal Self Defense

Pepper sprays normally come in aerosol type containers, some no larger than a lipstick. Some are small enough to attach to a key chain. Most of these non lethal devices can be fired several times and have a range between 8 and 20 feet, depending on model and size.

REMEMBER

the size of the unit generally determines its capacity.

pepper sprays are not the same as mace or tear gas sprays.

The popularity of pepper sprays has grown tremendously over the last few years due to the increase in violent crimes. Law abiding citizens are realising that they have to depend on devices like this to protect themselves and their families. There are around 40 manufacturers of these sprays, who offer various sizes, formulations and spray types. However there is only one chemical composition which should be considered for use by the general public in a self defense situation.

It is estimated that at least 15,000,000 Americans now carry personal defense sprays, the majority of which are OC (pepper sprays)

What is Pepper Spray?

The active ingredient in pepper spray is OC or oleoresin capsicum. The OC is derived from Cayenne peppers – some of the hottest peppers in the world. OC is a reddish-orange, oily liquid, insoluble in water. The OC agent is dispersed by the areosol in a number of spray patterns depending on the model, as follows:

Forced Cone – best for most situations. A fine mist spray at a distance of 8-12 feet with minimum blow-back on to you. Blow-back can however be a problem in a mild breeze and uncontrollable in a strong wind

Broken Stream – very effective for hitting multiple targets (or in the dark), can be fanned for covering wider area. Provides heaviest blast of pepper, but cans will emptier quicker. Range normally 15-20 feet, not affected by breezes and winds as much as fog and cone sprays.

Fogger – very good against multiple attackers and home use, due to the barrier effect of the fog. Can however be some blow-back of pepper which would contaminate you, especially if used outside in strong winds. This would still be minimal compared to the amount the attacker would receive. Most foggers have a range of 15-20 feet

Foam – very good blow-back protection and immediate saturation, even in
windy conditions. This thick, sticky foam works instantly on the attacker.

One of the misconceptions about pepper spray is, that the higher the percentage, the hotter and better it works. In most cases this is not true, most of the best, fastest incapacitating sprays in the world are from 2-10%. The lighter the fluid, the faster it penetrates the membrane.

What Will Pepper Spray do to an Attacker

When pepper spray is sprayed into someone's eyes and face, it irritates the skin, eyes and mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract (throat). Coughing and choking may be experienced. It is very uncomfortable and there is pain associated with it.

The end result is temporary incapacitation, mostly due to not being able to see, people are too preoccupied with the blinding and painful experience to even attempt to do anything violent to you. If properly contaminated with pepper spray, an attacker will not be able to open their eyes for between10 minutes to an hour, allowing you plenty of time to escape safely.

Body size and weight, asthma, smoking, make little or no difference to the effectiveness of the spray. There may however be a small increase in blood pressure, heart rate and ventilation. Because OC (oleoresin capsicum – chilli peppers) is an inflammatory agent and not an irritant, it is still effective on those who feel no pain such as psychotics and those under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

All OC plants, of which there are many different types contain a very powerful substance, an alkaloid called capsaicin. Humans can detect capsaicin even when diluted to one part in ten million.

If you can imagine a really bad case of facial sunburn, a burning sensation in the back of your mouth and VERY hot and sore eyes – you will have some idea of the effects a pepper spray will have on your attacker.

Pepper sprays (OC) have also proven to be the best deterrent available against attacking dogs and the control of wild animals.

Is Pepper spray Legal?

Pepper spray is used by many law enforcement agencies because it is more effective than tear gas and mace and because it does not cause direct permanent harm.

However there are still many areas and countries where its use by the general public is restricted. It is also a crime to carry pepper spray on a commercial aircraft.

You should check for restrictions in your locality.

How Should Pepper Sprays be Used

If you have to use your pepper spray in self defense, make sure that you have some distance between you and your attacker(s) if possible (you don't want the spray to affect you). Aim the spray at the eyes and facial region of the threat, then release a 1 to 2 second burst of spray. After you have done this move away, but watch the attacker(s) carefully as you do so. By watching the reactions of your attacker(s) you will be able to tell if a further burst of spray is required. REMEMBER spray and move, spray and move. Once the threat has been incapacitated seek help and call the police.

Shelf Life and Testing

Most pepper sprays have a shelf life of 3-4 years although some expire after two years. The expiry date should be marked on the canister.

Any use of the spray beyond the expiry date is HIGHLY unadvisable

YOUR LIFE MAY DEPEND ON IT
WORKING PROPERLY

Although the spray will work indefinitely, it will lose its potency over time.

Sprays should be tested by firing with half second bursts, both after purchase and then on a regular basis of every 90 days. Testing must always be done outside with any wind blowing from behind you.

REMEMBER all activations will reduce the contents of the canister, smaller capacity models will therefore need to be replaced every 9-12 months if these testing procedures are adhered to. Always check manufacturers testing and replacement recommendations.

Additional Self Defence information and hundreds more tips on how to protect your family, is now available in our new security and safety book 'How to Protect your Family and Belongings Now'

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