Only-Pepper Spray

Pepper foam combines pepper and foam to create a defense spray.  The Mace pepper foam makes it difficult for the assailant to see, and when the assailant attempts to wipe the foam away, pepper is ground into the eyes.

Mace pepper gel is pepper spray that is contained within gel rather than a liquid spray stream.  The gel component allows for longer spraying distance, a higher concentration of pepper, and is not flammable—it is tacky and sticks as glue would.  Check to ensure it is legal in your area (see previous blog entry).

Pepper spray is legal in all fifty states.  However, you cannot carry pepper spray on an airplane, in carry-on baggage, or in any passenger area.  The FAA will allow one container of pepper spray per traveler that is no more than four ounces in your checked luggage only.

There are certain cities and states that have restrictions regarding the purchase, ownership and use of defense sprays.   In New York, the sellers must be local pharmacies or licensed firearm dealers.   Massachusetts law is the same as New York, with the additional requirement that the buyer must obtain a Firearms Identification Card.  Wisconsin will allow straight pepper spray no stronger than a 10% concentrate, but no tear gas, UV dye or combination sprays are allowed; the canister must be between 15 and 60 grams in weight and must include a safety feature.  In Michigan, combination sprays are not allowed, CS is the only component of tear gas allowed, pepper spray can be no stronger than a 2% concentrate, and cans cannot contain more than 35 grams.  In California, pepper spray canisters cannot be more than 2.5 ounces.  Please check with local law enforcement agency to ensure you are aware of the most current legislation and pepper spray regulations.

Pepper sprays that appear to be something else are an ingenious invention that could buy you just the element of surprise you need when an attacker appears. 

A pepper spray key chain is probably the most common camouflage, but there are also lipsticks, pens, pagers, and even a ring that can disguise your secret weapon.

While walking alone, if you sense a problem heading toward you, change your route, and prepare to run and defend yourself.  Do not wear conspicuous jewelry, and act confident, maintaining eye contact, which makes an aggressor think twice before approaching you.  Carry pepper spray, and know how to use it. If you choose to take public transport, wait in a well-lit area for the bus to arrive and choose an aisle seat once you board so that you can make a quick exit, preferably close to the driver.

If you are traveling alone by car, approach your vehicle with keys in hand and ready to use.  Check your car before entering to ensure it is empty, and lock all doors and windows every time you leave the car.  Attackers wait for opportunities when someone runs into the store quickly and fails to do so.