Pepper spray
From Freepedia
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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 defense 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 chillis. 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. Units designed for defense against wildlife ('bear spray') also exist, and can have such dramatically higher heat ratings that they can be strong enough to burn any skin on the body by mere contact. Similarly, 'triple-action' sprays containing CS tear exist, which will be stronger per heat unit.
In the UK, where it is classed as an offensive weapon, the sale and possession of pepper spray is illegal.
In Washington, D.C., possession of pepper spray must be registered with the DC Metropolitan Police.
In Sweden it is classified as an offensive weapon and possession of pepper spray require a licence. As of this writing no such license has been issued.
A synthetic counterpart of pepper spray - pelargonic acid morpholide - was developed and is widely used in Russia. Its effectiveness compared to natural pepper spray is unclear.
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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. Psychological effects may include anxiety and panic, especially when breathing difficulties are experienced. 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 mitigated effects lasting for hours.
Deactivation/First Aid
Though there is no way of completely neutralising pepper spray, its effect can be minimised or stopped. As veteran chili-eaters know, capsicum is not soluble in water, and even large volumes of it will have little to no effect. It is, however, soluble in fats and oils, but of course it will already be in oil form when sprayed on a victim. Nevertheless, the most effective solution is a combination of milk, honey, a mild detergent and a little baking soda; it will soothe the area and remove the chemical somewhat - however, only a tiny amount is required to continue burning.
Victims should be encouraged to blink vigorously in order to encourage tearing, which will help flush the irritant from the eyes. Some of the oil can be washed off the face using a degreasing, non-oily soap such as a mild dish detergent, and a fan will provide some relief. If possible, the victim should take a cold shower (heat opens pores and allows more irritant in; also baths merely redistribute it)
Some "triple-action" pepper sprays also contain "tear gas" (CS gas), which can be neutralised with sodium metabisulfite (Campden tablets, used in homebrewing; though it, too, is fat soluble and could be washed off to a degree with milk), or a UV "blanketing" dye (little can be done against this, but its effects are not nearly as dramatic).
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
- Pepper spray Information
