Pepper Spray Information

It's everyone's right to have the proper means to defend oneself against abuse and assault. There are many who choose to carry Mace or Pepper spray, and I wish to outline certain technical, practical and legal aspects of this self defense method.

Mace is a form of tear gas in areosol format, and despite the popularity of its name, is illegal in most countries around the world. Mace Security International have also created a version with pepper spray ingredients instead of tear gas. Here are the effects of tear gas.

• Difficulty breathing, tight chest, coughing
• Headaches, dizziness, general discomfort
• Burning sensation on exposed skin
• Swelling of eyelids and runny nose

Pepper Spray is the most commonly accesible and legal aerosol product for self-defense. It is also extensively sold for self-defense against dogs, bears and other wild animals in stronger and larger formats. It's main ingredient is Capisaicin, a skin tissue irritant that affects all types of mammals and that is found is various fungi and plants, as well as the well know Jalapeno Pepper. Here are some of the physical effects of exposure to Pepper Spray:

• Closing and tearing of the eyes
• Swelling of the throat lining causing difficulty breathing
  
• Uncontrolable caughing and gagging
• Burning sensation on exposed skin
• Dizziness

Legality

In many countries, pepper spray is considered a weapon and is illegal to carry. It is important for anyone wishing to protect themselves using this method be aware of the state, province, and country's laws.

In Canada for example, all forms of pepper spray for self defense is illegal. However, it's perfectly legal to own Dog Spray and Bear Spray. In the United States, it's illegal to carry, pruchase or otherwise own pepper spray if you're under the age of 18 (or 16 if with parent's consent), have a criminal record of assault or have misused self defense prays in the past.

If you are ever exposed to Pepper Spray don not rub, it will only sink the chemicals deeper into the skin. Rince with cold water and get to fresh air. I'm asthmatic and have tried dog spray on myself and find that the ol' asthma pump sure comes handy when your throat starts swelling up. Overall effects usually dissipate after 15-30 minutes.