What Are The Many Advantages of Pepper Spray

Pepper spray can be a useful and relatively safe weapon choice for everyone. As long as it’s used properly it can be a great line of defense. Here’s what you should know.

What Is Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a canister that provides a non lethal way to fend of attackers. It’s main component is a derivative of cayenne pepper, or chile pepper. It is generally in an oil based solution. It will cause stinging and temporary blindness when used. It can also affect other mucus membranes such as the sinus cavity and mouth. Where ever the spray is used you will see swelling, and inflammation, and the would be attacker will have a severe burning sensation.

Is Pepper Spray Safe?

Pepper spray is much safer than other alternatives. Gases or mace can cause permanent and irreversible damage. Other forms of defense such as guns can obviously kill someone. Pepper spray is designed to give you enough time to run and get help. It won’t generally cause any kind of permanent damage to the person who’s been sprayed.

Is Pepper Spray Legal?

In a word, yes. Some states have restrictions on the sale of pepper spray, but it remains legal. Check with your local authorities to see if there is anything special you have to do in order to purchase it. (For example, Massachusetts requires you have a Firearms Identification Card to carry or use pepper spray.)

You will not be able to carry pepper spray on a plane with you, so if you plan on traveling you will need to prepare for that.

Do I Have To Carry A Bulky Can?

Nope. Pepper spray is available in many different forms that can easily be hidden in a purse or pocket. For women, you can find pepper spray in a small can that looks like lipstick. It’s also commonly found on key chain attachments. They even make a ring that carries the pepper spray inside. This may not be the best idea though, since you can potentially spray yourself with this one!

What If I Spray Myself?

Ouch! Luckily there are antidotes that can help ease the pain and symptoms. Milk is a great antidote. Just gently flush the affected area and you will see immediate relief in the burning and tearing eyes. Honey, sour cream, and sometimes a baking soda paste can help as well. If you have sprayed yourself you can expect to experience some discomfort, swelling and burning for a little while even with an antidote.

Why Choose Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a great option for those who want to feel safe but don’t want to carry anything extreme. It is a weapon, but a weapon that will inflict the least amount of damage. If you plan on carrying pepper spray, you may want to take a self defense course as a sidekick to the pepper spray. You may also want to research to determine which spray is right for you. And there is nothing wrong with asking lots of questions when you purchase the pepper spray.