Every law enforcement officer in the country carries a pepper spray. It is really his first option after a lawful command is not followed. Since the 1980’s when the FBI authorized the use of pepper spray, civilian usage has gone out of sight. It is a primary nonlethal self defense weapon for female self defense. Pepper spray or OC spray as it is sometimes called is by far the most popular self defense item in the world.
The main ingredient in pepper spray is the resin of one of the hottest peppers in the world-cayenne pepper-oleoresin capsicum (that’s where the OC comes from).
Pepper spray is such a powerful tool that is not legal in all countries. It is legal in all of the 50 United States but some states have restrictions in the amount of oleoresin capsicum that can be used.
Once the resin makes contact with the skin, it swells the mucus membranes of the nose making breathing difficult. It also causes the membranes of the eyes to swell up which makes it difficult to see. There is intense pain associated with pepper sprays along with coughing and choking. Effects are not long-lasting and will go away after about 45 minutes.
I have always maintained that knowing the proper way to use something increases the effectiveness of the product. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your pepper spray.
- Pepper sprays are on average, close to 90% effective. They are almost always used outdoors and wind conditions can affect the accuracy of your aim. So make sure you take that into account.
- Always read and follow the directions of a new product you get.
- The contents of all pepper sprays are pressurized and can explode if left in a car, for example. Always keep them in a cool ventilated place.
- Pay attention to the expiration date on the bottom of your pepper spray. They are usually good for three years.
- When using the pepper spray aim for the eyes, but if you hit anywhere on the face that’s okay.
- And practice using your pepper spray so that you know where the safety is to prevent accidental discharge. Some pepper sprays have grips so that you can hold it in the dark without fear of holding it the wrong way.
- When you spray an assailant don’t stand around admiring your work. Pepper sprays allow you time to escape a dangerous situation. Go get help or just get away.
Follow these tips to get the most out of your pepper spray.
The Home Security Superstore is one of the oldest and largest independent distributors of high quality home security, surveillance, spy, self-defense, survival and safety products. We carry a wide range of self-defense products including tasers, stun guns, pepper sprays, and other non-lethal weapons that can save your life in the event of an attack.