Only-Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a chemical which immediately affects the body in a severe manner. If you are ever shot with pepper spray, there are a few tips you should know about first-aid response to it.

First of all, there is no way to neutralize the effects of pepper spray, although they can be lessened. Capsaicin, the active ingredient in the spray, is not soluble in water, so no matter how much you douse yourself in it, nothing will change. You should blink vigorously to encourage tears, which will help flush it from your eyes and wash it from your face with soap, shampoo, dish washing detergent, or other detergents. Milk will also provide some relief from the burning sensation, as will ice, cold water, a cold surface, or a fan.

Pepper spray is an excellent deterrent to an attacker, as it has immediate and severe reactions. It’s an inflammatory, and will cause immediate closing of the eyes, difficulty breathing, a runny nose, and coughing. According to the European Parliament Scientific and Technological Options Assessment, the chemical will cause temporary blindness which can last from 15 to 30 minutes, and create a burning sensation on the skin which can last 45 minutes to one hour. It also leads to upper body spasms, which will force the attacker to bend forward and cough uncontrollably, making it difficult to talk or breathe for three to 15 minutes.

For anyone who is walking alone at night, or just doesn’t feel comfortable in their surroundings, pepper spray is an excellent choice for self-defense. State laws vary on who can purchase the spray and where, so look into them.