Taking A Closer Look At OC Pepper

The most popular non-lethal, self-defense product available to the average citizen today is Oleoresin Capsicum Pepper Spray, commonly known as, “OC Pepper Spray.” In the last few years pepper spray has become the leading weapon of choice for more law-abiding citizens than any other protective device.

Just what is OC spray and how does it work? Pepper spray is made from the naturally occurring, nontoxic chemical called Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) found in hot pepper plants. This is where the name “OC Pepper Spray” comes from. OC is the active ingredient in the hot peppers. The effectiveness or hotness of pepper spray is measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU). SHU is a scale that was developed in 1912 by the American chemist, Wilbur Scoville, used to measure the hotness or piquancy of various peppers. The number of SHU indicates the amount of capsaicin present. For example, a standard bell pepper is rated at 0 SHU, Jalapeno’s are at 5000 and a Habanero is 250,000-300,000 SHU. For a pepper spray to have an effect on people it should be rated at 2 million SHU, however, some police grade pepper sprays are rated as high as 5 million SHU.

OC spray is an inflammatory agent, that when sprayed in the face of an assailant, will force the eyes to close immediately, it also causes temporary blindness, difficulty in breathing, a runny nose and an irrepressible cough that will send him to his knees. OC is also very effective on perpetrators who are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or experiencing any kind of psychotic episode. The duration of the OC effects depend on the strength of the spray, but the average full effect lasts around thirty to forty-five minutes, with diminished effects lasting for hours. The assailant will usually make a full recovery once the effects completely wear off and, other than embarrassment, will not suffer any lasting adverse aftereffects.

OC is an oily substance. It cannot be washed away with water despite how much is used. The best way to reduce the consequences of pepper spray in the eyes is to briskly blink it way with tears. This will aid in cleansing the irritant from the eyes. Additionally, to prevent the burning sensation from spreading to other parts of the body it is best to avoid touching the affected spots. Massaging ointments onto the affected areas will only serve to trap the capsaicin in the skin resulting in a heightened burning sensation and possibly even cause blistering to occur.

Pepper spray normally comes in canisters, which are often miniature enough in size to be carried or hidden away inside a pocket or purse. Pepper spray can also be bought disguised as ordinary items such as rings, lipstick, or some other everyday object such as a pager or pen. Additionally, pepper spray will expire after about 3-4 years due to the aerosol propellant escaping from the container. If used after the expiration date, it might not spray as expected. The expiration date of some models can be found on the label.

Overall OC defense sprays are considered by civilians to be the best non-lethal self-defense devices available. Their use is not considered deadly force, the sprays are legal in most states and usually no special permit to own or dispense the chemical is required. However, there are some states that do restrict the purchase and use of pepper spray. In New York, for example, the pepper spray must be purchased from with-in the state, from a licensed pharmacist or firearms dealer. Massachusetts also requires the spray to be purchased from a licensed firearms dealer. In Michigan, “OC” pepper spray cannot be stronger than 2%, and in Wisconsin, the spray cannot exceed 10%. In California and Florida pepper spray is legal up to a 2oz. unit. When traveling, OC cannot be taken on board any airplane for obvious security reasons. Before purchasing pepper spray it would be wise to check with the police department for local and state laws on its’ use or restrictions.

Learn more about OC pepper spray and other self-defense products. Stop by www.a1selfdefenseproducts.com where you can find out all about defense sprays and what it can do for you.

Learning About the Most Recent Fashion Trends

Many men and women struggle hard to identify the way fashion trends are set. They try to wear something everyday according to the latest trends. At times they go overboard and at times they end up making a fool of themselves. It is human nature that we want to look perfect irrespective of the fact where we are going to.

When people are young, they have their parents buy branded clothes for them but when they are teenagers, they start following the fads on their own and by the time people become adults they not only follow styles but also have their individual tastes. It is also possible to follow the tips and advice of stylists who are experts at this field. A stylist helps you know what is in style and also figure out as to what would suit you the best.

There are many people who have the money and do not mind consulting stylists to get personal styling tips, while those who do not have this money can perhaps observe styles and then develop their own styles and fashion trends.

Nowadays media has started imposing fashion on the people through the ads, movies, shows. People feel out of the box if they dont follow the trends because that is what media tells them directly and indirectly.

There are so many and just so many designers who are busy in dressing up people all around the globe. It even leaves us confused because we have got so many choices to select from. Fashion is basically developed due to fashion designers, people, shops, and consumers. All of these groups contribute together in setting up the latest fashion trends.

Most believe that fashion relates to their personal thinking. They do not have to follow something which is just shown on TV or set by others. They simply believe in wearing those outfits which suits them and they can carry well.

Nowadays its not only the adults who have become fashion conscious but even the little kids decide themselves what to wear and what not. They get inspired by their teachers and classmates and then eventually develop their own styles at a very young age.

The way people dress up determines fashion. As so many people are interested in the latest trends so soon, it provides a lot of opportunity for fashion designers. People want to be appreciated on the basis of what they wear. They are less concerned about what actually suits them.

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Lethal vs. Non-Lethal Weapons, You Decide

The world we live in is an unsafe place and rising violent crime rates confirm that fact. For this reason, it is imperative for citizens to be cautious about their personal safety. One way this can be accomplished is with self-defense weapons. Self-defense weapons can be either lethal or non-lethal. Let’s examine the differences of each.

Lethal Weapons

Rifles, shotguns, handguns and knives are considered lethal weapons because they are deadly and their effects can be everlasting. Most of the weapons that fall into this category require the user to get special training in the proper use of such them. And all states call for a license or special permit to bear these arms. It takes regular practice to become skilled in using this type of weaponry. If your attacker is unarmed and you make the decision to use a lethal weapon to defend yourself, it might be viewed by the courts as a use of “excessive force”. Take into account that your firearm might be used against you if your attacker manages to subdue you and take away your weapon. These weapons can also harm innocent bystanders if the user isn’t careful. Lethal weapons can cost a lot to possess and the responsibility of ownership is much greater. If you are disposed to using deadly force to protect yourself then you will have to live with the consequences and remorse for the remainder of your life.

Non-Lethal

A non-lethal weapon is a device purposely designed to be used to bring someone to their knees without causing fatal harm or and permanent injury. Unlike standard arsenal, non-lethal weapons use a method other than deadly force to reach the objective. Examples of non-lethal weapons are defense sprays such as pepper spray and mace, and energy devices such as stun guns and tasers. When properly used, non-lethal weapons will not cause severe injury, death or have any permanent consequences. Yet they are effective in stopping an attacker long enough to give you time to flee. A license or permit is not needed in order to carry any of these kinds of weapons. Any person can use them with very little or no special tutoring. Many have safety precautions, which will render the device inoperative if an assailant takes it away from you. Another benefit of non-lethal weapons is there is lower risk of innocent bystanders being seriously harmed because none of the effects are lasting. They are much more affordable than other types of weaponry.

The Choice is Yours

The type of self-defense weapon you decide to carry, whether lethal or non-lethal, is a personal choice. Keep in mind, being armed and prepared to use a self-defense weapon won’t halt every crime, however, it can significantly lessen your chances of being assaulted and greatly increase your survival if you are attacked.

A wide selection of non-lethal weapons and other security devices can be found at www.a1selfdefenseproducts.com

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A Wonderful Gift to Yourself and Loved Ones is Crime Prevention

The winter holiday season is a very busy time of year for everyone, especially for criminals. With the holiday season upon us, most people are preoccupied with the details of holiday planning and shopping. Many shoppers are out and about running errands, carrying more money and packages than during other times of the year. Unfortunately criminals view the holiday season as a time of opportunity. This is not a time to forget that criminals will also be out and about looking for easy targets to make a big score. Nothing can ruin your Christmas spirit faster than becoming the victim of a crime.

According to the FBI, crime incidents become more frequent during this particular time of the year. Burglaries, muggings, car thefts, robberies, pick pocketing, credit card scams and crimes at ATMs all increase during the month of December. Often the safety precautions we may normally take are forgotten as the anticipation and excitement of the Yuletide season causes us to let our guard down. Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, remember to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals will often target those who are distracted and aren’t paying attention.

The day after Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the shopping season for the holidays. As you begin that holiday shopping, you might want some advice on how to avoid becoming an easy mark for criminals. Remember this advice is helpful year round as well.

PARKING LOT SAFETY TIPS

Trying to stay safe while you are shopping for Christmas can be a little difficult. Mainly because there are fewer daylight hours in the day at this season of the year. Often shoppers arrive at a mall when it is day and find that it has gotten dark outside by the time they are ready to leave. Anxious to get inside and make their purchases, many shoppers don’t consider this when they park.

Because parking lots fill up quickly this time of year, it might be harder to find a good parking spot. Look for one that has plenty of light and lots of pedestrian traffic around. Avoid parking in remote areas if at all possible and don’t forget to lock your vehicle when you leave. Become familiar with the area where you parked. Take a mental note of the row and number so you can easily find your car when you return.

Take a friend along when you go shopping. Using the buddy system reduces your chances of being mugged or attacked. If you are shopping alone, consider walking near other shoppers in the parking lot. Walk in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid areas where people are loitering. Walk with a purpose and authority in your stride.

SHOPPING MALL SAFETY TIPS

While shopping inside it is a good idea to avoid dark hallways and stockrooms, especially at closing time. Be sure to only use bathrooms that are located in high traffic areas of the mall such as the food court.

Be careful and on guard when walking in crowds. Look out for people you do not know who deliberately bumps, jostles or gets too close as these may be diversions for pickpockets who try to steal your wallet. While you are at it, you might want to keep a close eye on your shipping bags and other personal property too. Keep your purse close to your body and never leave it unwatched in the shopping cart. It’s not a good idea to keep your wallet, credit cards, or cash in your back pocket or a backpack. Pickpockets can swiftly with easy get at these items without being caught. As an alternative, carry them in your front pockets.

It’s not a good idea to carry large amounts of cash around. Whenever you can, try to pay for your purchases with checks, credit cards, or debit cards. When you do have to pay with cash only pull out what is needed. Keep the rest of your money hidden from view. Make your most expensive purchases last so you can head straight home afterwards.

When you are ready to go back to your car, don’t be overloaded with packages. Combine as many of them as you can into fewer packages or make several trips to your car. Carrying too many packages will hinder your view and you won’t be able to move quickly to avoid being attacked.

It’s best to have your car keys ready and in hand when you reach your vehicle to prevent having to search for them. You may also want to check if you are being followed to your car too. When you approach your car wait until you get closer to use your remote to unlock it. Unlocking your car from a distance could alert a would-be attacker which vehicle is yours. He could then race ahead and be waiting for you arrive. Before you get into your car scan the back seat and other areas where an attacker might hide to make sure it is safe to do so.

Place your packages in the trunk out of sight. Do this when you first get to your car, rather than waiting until you park at your next stop. Gifts and other valuables should never be left in clear view this would provide thieves a reason to break into your vehicle while you are shopping.

When you get into your vehicle lock your doors immediately and drive off. Don’t wait around sitting there to check off your shopping list, jot purchases down in your checkbook ledger or whatever it is that may cause you to delay your departure. This creates the perfect opportunity for an attacker to approach you and force his way into your car, especially if you didn’t lock the doors.

An additional precaution you may to consider is to carry a personal alarm. A personal alarm is great for getting the attention of witnesses if you ever need it. They are easily carried on your wrist or key chain and will emit a loud annoying noise when activated. An attacker will not like that kind of attention. He will stop his assault and go away.

Following the safety advice outlined above will help your holiday to be a merry one.

Visit www.a1selfdefenseproducts.com for self defense products, personal alarms and other security devices.

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