One of the things that I've been asked, especially as a police officer is, "What if I can't carry pepper spray?" One of the easiest things that you can have handy, especially in an office place, is a simple can of wasp spray. That's right, I said, "Wasp Spray". Think about it, you are at the workplace, the can is in plain view, and no one will question a can of wasp spray. If something were to go wrong, by all means you have that at hand.
We have come a long way in all professions, however, the ladies, have definitely come a long way. I applaud you women out there for showing us “Big He-Man” types, on how to do things. I have a nine year old girl, and she is as tough as nails when it comes to having the right attitude about what she can do. I’ve always told her that she should never have to depend on anyone, and she can do anything that she puts her mind to doing. Gender has no bearing. I’ve seen women about 5 foot 2 inches, knock down a 6 foot suspect and take them to the ground and handcuff. If that don’t put a tear in your eye, I don’t know what will. I’m all for “girl power”, it is definitely impressive.
With that said and done, I would like to discuss a simple little safety item for the women in the workplace. I know laws are different state by state in regards to what you can or can’t carry for personal defense. A little item that I would like to mention for defense is something so simple, you may not have even thought about it.
Yes there are numerous types of defense sprays out there: i.e. pepper spray, mace, etc… I mentioned earlier that state laws are different, but one thing that does not change in the equation is who is involved, you. One thing that I would like to mention as well, if you are by yourself, you must rely on yourself. So, what happens if you cannot buy or cannot purchase pepper spray? The answer: Wasp Spray. Wasp spray is virtually inexpensive and can be found in any store having a hardware or yard section. This is another tool in crime prevention.
There are numerous advantages to wasp spray:
1. It's relatively inexpensive
2. It's not illegal in any state
3. It can be displayed in plain view without any alarm
4. It shoots a stream several feet away (approx. 10-20 ft)
5. Less of a tendency of getting contaminated like pepper spray because of the closer proximity to the attacker
You can even keep it in the office or in the car, by the center console.
Disadvantages to wasp spray:
1. It is a pesticide and not designed for humans
2. The pesticide in the wasp spray can be harmful in large doses
Your safety is the most important thing that you must consider, especially if liability issues come to mind. If I was involved in a life threatening situation, I would’nt be thinking about liability during the incident. I would concern myself with my safety first, then worry about the situation later.
If you get caught in an attack and it happens to you: Get in, take care of the situation, and GET OUT! There is no room for trying to wait and see what happens. You were the one attacked; you were the one that was to be the victim. You are not a victim: You are a VICTOR!!!! I have also provided you with a link in SNOPES.com concerning the issue in more detail.
Stay safe out there and always be aware of your surroundings. Make a witness; in other words, scream for HELP as you are running away, in case someone may be listening. If the police arrive and apprehend the suspect, you now have any witnesses that may have heard your screams.
Pepper Spray is a great option, if available.
Now, if you are looking for pepper spray, avoid the steady stream types as well as foams. You want to look for a spray that shoots the propellant in a cone shape. It will usually shoot the cone in a 30-45 degree angle. Most important tip: watch the direction of the wind because you can get exposed as well. Just spray the propellant and get out of there and get call for help. Another thing that you must remember is that there isn't anything out there that is 100% and works on everyone. We have seen suspects shake off the effects of the pepper spray and still continue the fight. The more reason to get in there, spray, and GET OUT! I hope that this information has helped you out there.
Always:
1. Know your surroundings
2. Know your escape routes
3. Know your abilities
4. Know where to call for help
http://www.snopes.com/crime/prevent/waspspray.asp
