Pepper spray may give someone an opportunity to get away from an attacker. It is not a guarantee, and carrying it without preparation may provide false confidence.
Before you buy
Check that the product comes from a reputable supplier and includes clear instructions, an expiry date and information about its effective range.
Different products release a stream, spray, mist, gel or foam. Each behaves differently. The supplier should be able to explain the product’s intended use and limitations.
Accessibility matters
Pepper spray at the bottom of a handbag is unlikely to be useful in an emergency.
Consider:
- whether you can reach it quickly;
- whether you can identify the correct end by touch;
- how its safety mechanism works;
- whether you could activate it under pressure; and
- how you will prevent accidental discharge.
Do not practise with active pepper spray. Ask whether the supplier offers an inert training canister or appropriate professional instruction.
Understand the conditions
Wind may blow spray back towards you or other people. Confined spaces may expose everyone nearby. An attacker may continue moving after being sprayed, and the spray may not affect everyone in the same way.
Spraying someone also requires time, distance and access to the canister. Those conditions may not exist during an attack.
If you use it
Your purpose is to create an opportunity to escape. Move away, seek help and contact the police.
Avoid touching your face. If you or another person is exposed, follow the manufacturer’s first-aid instructions and seek medical help if symptoms are severe or persist.
Pepper spray can be one option. It should never be your entire safety plan.
