Pepper Spray:

How Does it Feel to get Blasted?

It’s something to think about.  What would happen if you tried to use pepper spray and it sprayed into your own eyes?  And, could you accidentally blind someone with it? Permanently maim them? What are the effects of pepper spray? These are important questions and they certainly have answers.

What is pepper spray? 

Pepper spray is the naturally occurring chemical, oleoresin capsicum (OC).  It can temporarily disable attackers, whether the attacker is an individual, a group, or some sort of dangerous animal.  According to The FBI Bulletin, pepper spray is an inflammatory agent and “is a natural derivative of the cayenne, or hot pepper.”  The publication further explains that “pepper sprays rely on propellants to dispense their contents. Most sprays contain carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or isobutane propellants. In addition, the OC can be suspended in a water or alcohol solution.”[1] 

Since pepper spray can be purchased in small, easy to carry and conceal containers, an initial spray of the solution can take an attacker by surprise, placing would be victims firmly in charge of the situation.  The use of pepper spray does not require any special training or physical strength.

What does it feel like to get blasted with pepper spray?

The benefits of understanding what happens when you are hit with pepper spray are immeasurable.  Knowing the effects of pepper spray ahead of time can prevent your mind from going into panic mode should you somehow accidentally spray yourself.  And in the event that you need to use it against a criminal, you’ll know to get away fast as he falls to his knees -- you can rest assured that you haven’t blinded him, you have simply paralyzed him.  Use this opportunity to seek safety and to call the police.

So what does it feel like? As soon as the pepper spray hits you, your eyes will involuntarily close, tear up, and begin burning.  But don’t panic: studies have shown that while debilitating, the effects of pepper spray on your eyes is harmless and produces no long-term effects.  As your eyes close, you will begin coughing.   The cough will be excruciating, but temporary.  You might suffer from restricted breathing, inflamed skin, and become awkwardly uncoordinated.  All of these effects will last anywhere from twenty minutes to an hour but will not be fatal.

Overcoming Pepper Spray

If, in the act of defending yourself, you get pepper spray on you, blink rapidly to prevent eye penetration.  Do this as you head to safety and towards anywhere that clean air is flowing or blowing.  Remove all impacted clothing as soon as possible and wash areas where the pepper spray touched you with cool soapy water.  If the spray still won’t come off, try an old fashioned treatment of milk and honey.

If you want more information about how you can protect yourself with pepper spray, visit our website at www.citizensfightingback.com/peppergard.htm

Fred Cheney

Pro-Tech Products