Pepper sprays are considered by the American Institute of security as the best line of defense for the public against assaults.
However, before purchasing a pepper spray you should consider the following: •Your local and state laws •Age of the person to use the spray •Maturity of the person •Where you plan to carry it or have it available for use •What type is best for you; spray, fog, foam or gel Peppers sprays are legal in all 50 states.
However, Massachusetts, New York, Michigan and Wisconsin have certain guidelines for use or purchasing.
If you are unsure, check with your local police department.
If you are traveling into these states, make sure you follow their guidelines for carrying these products.
Even though there is no age restriction to carry and use pepper sprays in most states, parents should take into consideration the age and maturity of their child before allowing them to carry a spray as a means of self defense.
Parents are also responsible for making sure their child does not carry the self defense spray in restricted areas such as schools, school buses, airports, government buildings, etc.
That said, I know some very responsible fourteen to sixteen year olds that I would not mind having pepper spray on them if they are out late at night leaving a job or going to concerts or other events where they may be vulnerable.
At the same time, I know some young adults in their twenties and even older who I would never trust with pepper sprays.
The decision for under eighteen should be made by the parent and once again, the maturity of the child and the situation in which they may need to carry a self defense product should be carefully considered.
Do I think someone younger than fourteen should carry a spray? In my opinion, the answer would be "probably not".
Children younger than fourteen should not be out in vulnerable places without some type of adult supervision (there are other types of products such as whistles, etc.
for younger children).
Does this mean that at some point a young person will not use this product incorrectly? No.
A student in Florida recently pepper sprayed someone on a bus.
However, if a student is going to bring a weapon to school or somewhere they shouldn't, I'd rather it be pepper spray than a gun or knife.
Another consideration when purchasing a self defense spray is the type.
OC, actual "pepper" (capsicum) sprays are not only the most effective but are safe to use as they cause no permanent harm.
OC sprays come in different strengths and modes of delivery.
You can buy a spray that has a stream line spray and shoot at a distance of up to twelve feet; or in the form of fogs, foams or gels.
For more information on types of pepper sprays, contact a self defense company and view different products.
When purchasing a pepper spray, also check to see if it contains a UV dye.
If you spray an attacker with a spay containing a dye and he gets away before police can make an arrest, the dye will remain on his skin for up to a week; making identifying him later an easier task.
Sprays that contain the dyes are a little more expensive, but worth the extra cost if it helps get criminals off the street.
Keep you and your family safe, wise and protected by providing each and your home with some type of self defense product.
It not only pays to have these products, it is also important to know how to use them and know ways to keep you safe.