Pepper Spray Vs Wasp Spray as Protection Against Assailants
I recently discovered that there is a claim that a can of Wasp Spray is a preferable alternative to Pepper Spray for protection against assailants. Judging from all the information on the internet, this seems to be a very controversial subject. Since I sell pepper spray on my web site, I was very interested to find out more about it. So after researching, I want to share a few pros and cons with you.
Wasp Spray Pros
- Legality: Since carrying and using wasp spray is not illegal anywhere, this means that is can be transported from state-to-state. It can be used in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
- Convenience: If you can find a can small enough you can carry it in your purse or pocket while shopping. Personally, I haven't seen a very small can of Wasp Spray.
- Distance: When considering it for protection, distance that the wasp spray can cover is another plus. If you read the directions on the can, it states that it can be shot up to 20 or 30 feet. So to be effective, this means that the intruder doesn't have to be any closer to you than that.
- Ease of Use: Ease of use tends to go hand-in-hand with distance. Most people have had the experience of using wasp spray and know how easy and accurate it is.
- Expense: Expense is sometimes a factor. If that's the case, Wasp Spray is sometimes less expensive, but that's not always the case. You can buy a canister of Pepper Spray for under $10.00.
- Effectiveness: Effectiveness is really the most important factor when considering a method of protection. According to some reports, wasp spray is to be sprayed directly into the intruder's eye, which will temporarily blind the intruder.
Wasp Spray Cons:
- Testing: As far as I know, no one has ever tested or documented the effectiveness of insecticide sprays for self-defense.
- Safety and Effectiveness: The active ingredient in most wasp sprays are pyrethrins, These are compounds derived from a species of the chrysanthemum plan which penetrate the nervous systems of insects and kill them. Wasp sprays are not formulated or advertised to be used directly on human beings, so they should not be relied upon as a form of non-lethal self defense. Their safety and effectiveness for this purpose has not been sufficiently tested, therefore the toxic effects of pyrethrin could potentially be much more harmful or less effective than expected. Is it worth the risk?
- Legality: Many States specifically prohibit the use of any self-defense sprays other than pepper spray. For example, the Michigan penal code allows only the reasonable use of a self-defense spray or foam device containing not more than 2% oleoresin capsicum by a person in the protection of a person or property under circumstances which would justify the person's use of physical force. More importantly, most spray insecticide containers include warnings that "it is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling".
The Case for Pepper Spray
- Canisters of Pepper Spray (also known as "OC spray") or "oleoresin Capsicum" are a common non-lethal self defense product which dispense a solution containing capsaicin. Capsaicin is a chemical typically derived from cayenne peppers, therefore it is an inflammatory agent and causes a burning sensation of the mucous membranes. When sprayed into the face and eyes of an attacker, it very effectively disables the attacker by temporarily inducing tears, pain, blindness and choking. This will give you time to escape to safety.
- A very small amount will cause the eyelids to immediately close. When sprayed in the nose and mouth area, it will incapacitate your attacker by causing the contraction of the esophagus, trachea, and respiratory tract forcing uncontrolled choking and restricted breathing.
Thee are three forms of Pepper Spray to choose from:
- Stream Pepper Spray - sprays a stream of about 8 feet up to 25 feet of the product into the attackers face and eyes.
- Cone Spray - Produces a cone spray pattern.
- Fog Spray - Produces a fog that cover a large area.
What's the Conclusion?
We've learned Wasp Spray can get you in trouble with the law and Pepper Spray can get you in trouble with your eyes.
After reviewing all the information, it is my opinion is that using Wasp Spray is really not worth the risk. Especially considering that Pepper Spray (also Mace) is so readily available and inexpensive.
However, as with most individual choices, deciding the method of protection for you and your family is up to you. It's a very personal decision. Each person has to take into consideration their own situation and circumstances and choose the best.
The Bottom Line: Look at all the facts and decide for yourself which is best for you.
