Pepper spray
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Pepper spray is a non-lethal chemical agent which is used in riot control, crowd control and personal self-defense, including defence against dogs. The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, which is a chemical derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, including chiles. Pepper spray is also known as OC spray (from "Oleoresin Capsicum") or OC gas. Long term effects of pepper spray have not been effectively researched or published.
The scoville rating for pepper spray can be as high as 5,300,000 for police grade and much lower for civilian grade. Generic grade OC spray found in most stores measures about 2,000,000 scoville heat units. However, police grade pepper spray is available to civilians.
In the UK, where it is classed as an offensive weapon, the sale and possession of pepper spray is illegal.
In Washington, DC, possession of pepper spray must be registered with the DC Police.
A synthetic counterpart of pepper spray - pelargonic acid morpholide - was developed and is widely used in Russia.
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Effects
Pepper spray is an irritant, causing severe pain when in contact with skin. It also acts as an inflammatory agent, causing inflammation in the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Temporary blindness occurs on contact with eyes along with intense burning causing them to swell shut. Loss of balance and muscle coordination may occur along with severe skin irritation, difficulty breathing, and gagging. The length of the effects depend on the strength of the spray but the average full effect lasts around thirty to forty-five minutes with the mitigated effects lasting for hours.
Deactivation
Pepper spray could be washed away from the skin by means of alcohol, milk, or sweet water. Pure water, especially warm, will only make the effects worse.
See also
External links
- Pepper Spray considerations
- A history & Chemical Explanation of Pepper Spray
- Study of Pepper Spray (OC) Combined With Taser
- Self Defence Sprays