Something Spicy

Pepper spray is a great spicy, less than leathal way to defend yourself in a time of need.  The "spicy" from pepper spray comes oleoresin capsicum (OC) which comes from Cayenne peppers.  OC, which is a bright redish organge, is then put into canisters so that it can be sprayed: and pepper spray is born!  But just because the percentage of OC is higher, does not make the pepper spray better for defense.  This is because the higher the percentage of OC, the harder it is for the skin to absorb it.  Self defense experts decided that a 10% OC was the best mixture of something spicy.

If an attacker is sprayed with pepper spray in the face their eyes, skin, and lining of the upper respiratory tract will be irritated.  This will cause temporary lack of vision, coughing, chocking, and pain. Even if an attacker is unable to feel pain, pepper spray will still be efftive because it works by inflaming mucus  membranes which is what causes the symptoms. If pepper spray gets into eyes, an attacker will loose vision for 10-60 minutes, giving lots of time to get away. 

When using your something spicy, try your best to make sure you do not spray yourself. Aim for the eyes and face and use1 to 2 second bursts. As you move away, spray more.  Once safe, call the police. 

Pepper spray has a shelf life of 3-4 years, after that it will start to get less spicy. So be sure to refill and restock your something spicys!