Pepper Spray FAQs
Is using pepper spray against the law?
If you are interested in using pepper spray, you should check with your local
law enforcement office or your state’s Attorney General’s office. Each state has
their own regulations, although most states state it is legal to possess and
carry pepper spray. Some states have strict regulations on the size, age, or OC
concentration of the pepper spray their residents carry.
Are there places that prohibit pepper spray?
Yes. If you are flying on a commercial aircraft, you cannot carry pepper spray
with you. If you attempt to carry pepper spray on board, you will be violating
Federal law and may be fined up to $25,000. If you would like to carry pepper
spray in your checked baggage, you might be able to do so. However, you may want
to check with your airline and notify the ticketing agent when you check your
baggage.
In addition to aircraft, you cannot carry pepper spray into many Federal
buildings, State buildings, or anywhere else with a security checkpoint. There
may not be laws about these situations, but using your best judgment is often
advised.
Can you tell me how pepper spray works?
The active ingredient in pepper spray is oleoresin capsicum (OC). OC is derived
from one of the hottest peppers in the world, the Cayenne pepper. Pepper spray
is an inflammatory agent, not an irritant like MACE or tear gas. Upon contact
with mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, pepper spray causes
instant dilation of the capillaries. This contact can cause temporary effects
such as temporary blindness, difficulty breathing, and excessive coughing. The
skin contacted with pepper spray will also have an intense burning sensation.
These effects are not permanent. Traditional effects last from 15 to 60 minutes.
Since pepper spray is an inflammatory and not an irritant, those who are under
the influence of alcohol or drugs will still be able to feel its effects.
When it is best to use pepper spray?
Each situation is different; therefore there is no way to tell you when to use
your pepper spray. In addition, no defense item is 100% effective in every
situation. If you feel your life is in danger or you are threatened, you can use
your pepper spray. However, it is a crime to use pepper spray maliciously,
without just cause.
Can you tell me how to use my pepper spray?
Using your pepper spray is something you should research in advance. Be sure to
keep a distance between you and the attacker, if at all possible. Aim for the
eyes or the face. Release a one to two second burst of spray onto the attacker.
After spraying, move out of the way, keeping your eyes on the attacker. By
noticing the reactions of the attacker, you will be able to see if you need to
spray again or not. “Spray and Move” is a great motto to go by when using pepper
spray. Once the threat is eliminated, move to safety and call the police.
Does pepper spray expire?
Yes. Pepper spray can expire, so take note of the expiration date on the can.
The expiration date will typically be three to four years after the date of
purchase. The spray life can be indefinite, however the potency is what loses
effect over time. Use of pepper spray after the date of expiration is
unadvisable. It is a good idea to replace your pepper spray each year, to ensure
you always have the most potent spray available.
Will my pepper spray work when I need it?
You can test your defense spray every 90 days, to ensure it does work. To do
this, step outdoors and test the direction of the wind. Always stand upwind from
your spraying direction, to ensure you won’t be affected by any spray blowing
back. Depress the button for less than one second. Of course, each time you test
your spray, less spray will be in the can. So, be sure you leave plenty for an
emergency. |
