Show Notes for, "How to Choose and Use the Best Non-Lethal Personal Protection Weapon" - Episode 10.

Key Messages:

- When it comes to non-lethal personal protection weapons, there are two realistic options.
The first option is the use of one of two taser devices. The first taser device is the one carried by police that fires two projectiles with the hope both will embed themselves in such as way that an attacker can be stopped with a taser charge. Problems: units are bulky and expensive. Heavy clothing such as a leather jacket may make this type of taser ineffective.

- The second taser device, sometimes called a "stun gun", requires direct contact with an assailant. If the taser isn't applied properly, the assailant may take the device and use it on the victim or simply continue with the attack.

- The second option is to use a chemical spray, specifically pepper spray.

- Choose a pepper spray product from a reputable company such as SABRE or Mace and purchase two canisters (one to practice with) from major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Dick's Sporting Goods, and other trusted retailers.

- Pepper spray can't be left in a car safely. In summer, the inside temperature of a closed car can reach 120 degrees and higher. Pepper spray will likely not function if the product is exposed to high temperatures or temperatures near zero degrees Fahrenheit.

- Most pepper spray streams will extend about 10 feet from the canister. Hold the canister with fingers wrapped around the canister, aimed outward, with your thumb on the activator. Release safety if you plan to spray an attacker.

- Remember the mantra, "When in fear, spray ear to ear"! You want to aim the spray at an attackers face, particularly his or her eyes. Spray back and forth between the ears to saturate the face.

- When the attacker stops, take the opportunity to step back and leave the area quickly. Call police ASAP to report the attack.

- Practice using the device. Rehearse removing it smoothly from it's holster or carrying case, taking the safety off, and aiming the spray at face level. Practice frequently until it becomes automatic.

- There are legal considerations. Don't try to carry pepper spray onto a plane. Know your State and local laws as they relate to the use and carrying of pepper spray.

Resources:

- Pepper Spray Laws (note: for informational purposes only. I do not guarantee the accuracy of the information. You are fully responsible for adhering to all applicable laws related to pepper spray and its use):
- https://www.sabrered.com/blog/pepper-spray-laws
- https://www.pepper-spray-store.com/pages/all-pepper-spray-state-laws

- "How Pepper Spray Affects the Body": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLVTB7-yPqM

- "Pepper Spray: How to Use the Right Way": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhOwRfIMW_Q

- "How to Correctly Use Pepper Spray": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QII9hV86wGw

- Pepper Spray (Using it; Defending Against it; And Its Antidote): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOoJXKtSMc4