Pepper Spray

Oleoresin capsicum (OC) – a natural substance derived from the oily resins found in cayenne and other varieties of pepper plants

• Minimum age to carry / use = 18 years old
• Legal to carry in Florida (up to 2oz)
• Disguisable (e.g. pens, perfume bottle, cell phones, keychain)
• Inexpensive ($10 for ½ oz, $12 for a pen or lipstick, $20 for 2 oz)
• ½ oz shoots up to 10 feet (can attach to your car keys); 2 oz shoots up to 20 feet
• Spray in short bursts – aim for chest then to face (can press down for 15 seconds total if needed

Jalapeno Pepper – 5000 heat units, pepper spray = 2 million units (400 times stronger)

• Inflammatory & choking effects are immediate and lasts for 30 minutes, eyes will slam shut = temporary blindness
• Affects attackers of all sizes and drug-use (multiple attackers)
• Includes tear gas and a UV dye that police can see under black light
• There are expiration dates – will need to get a new can after expiration date
• Not allowed on school grounds / vehicles, airlines, government buildings, stadiums
• Worst case = Security will stop you and confiscate your pepper spray