For the longest time, pepper spray has stood the test of time as a useful self-defense tool by civilians, sportsmen and law enforcement alike. A non-lethal tool, pepper spray does not require physical contact, and it lets a victim properly protect themselves without having to resort to aggressive force.
Pepper Spray and Hunters
Hunters are among some of the biggest consumers with regard to pepper spray products. This is due to the fact that they can easily recognize how simple its use is coupled with its reliable protection. People may wonder why hunters do not simply use their guns when a bear attacks them. This is because even though hunters do carry weapons, they are not actually very reliable when it comes to defending against bears. There are all too many cases of people firing weapons at bears, but they move too quickly and are too strong for it to make a difference. In fact, statistics show that human-bear encounters are not as likely to result in human injury when they do not use firearms.
Coyote Country and Pepper Spray
Some parts of the country feature frequent close contact between human life and wildlife on a daily basis. In these areas, the residents often have to keep pepper spray nearby in order to protect themselves in case the wildlife gets a little too close for comfort.
Those who live in such an area where bears are a threat — or those who are just visiting for an extended period of time — may spend every day living in fear for every family member or pet that chooses to venture outside. The simple and effective solution is to have pepper spray for protection, a tool that ensures that any wild bear attack will be able to deter it for a long enough period of time for the family to return to safety.
How Bear Pepper Spray Works
Capsaicin and similar capsaicinoids are the active ingredients found in Oleoresin Capsicum, often referred to as simply OC. This is a natural substance that is typically found in chili peppers. OC bear pepper sprays cause a rapid and impermanent sense of burning on the skin in addition to a painful and tearful swelling within the eyes. When the bear inhales OC, it also causes the mucus membrane lining throughout the respiratory tract start swelling up, making it difficult to breathe. With burning skin, swollen eyes and difficulty breathing, the bear cannot further attack its victim, it allows the victim time to escape.
The best part is that the effects are temporary; the bear does not die from the pain and it will not suffer forever, making it a much better option than guns. The irritation that the pepper spray liquid causes begins to fade after about 30 minutes, though this amount can vary depending on how strong the product is. The only reason that one should be cautious, however, is that permanent eye damage can occur, so it is best to be careful with it.
When a person learns and fully understands the importance of pepper spray for bears, it is about time to go out and purchase one. Remember that danger can come in a wide range of different forms, so it is much better to do one’s best to prevent falling victim to any kind of accident that could have otherwise been prevented. By taking the precautions of taking pepper spray, it is possible to feel safe at home from unexpected bear attacks and to enjoy exploring and hiking with a peaceful mind. With pepper spray, bear attacks can end safely.