Using mace for self-defense

Mace is a registered brand name of a non-lethal* Chest: tight feeling in upper respiratory system,
self-defense spray, manufactured by Mace Securitycoughing
International.* Eyes: tearing and burning
Mace, Inc. makes three different formulas of* Mouth: accelerated secretion of saliva
self-defense spray: Triple Action, PepperGard or* Nose: discharge, burning, irritation
Pepper Mace, and Pepper Foam. All sprays are meant* Skin: burning and stinging feeling on surface nerve
to be directed into the face of an assailant.endings on the face
The word "mace" is often used interchangeably withIf you plan to use Mace or pepper spray for
"pepper spray." Mace Inc.'s Triple Action productself-defense, be prepared to use it. Have the canister
combines pepper spray, tear gas and ultraviolet dyeout and in your hand, with your finger on the trigger.
for an all-out assault on any would-be attacker. TheBe aware that Mace does not paralyze. Your attacker
pepper spray is made from hot cayenne peppers, themay still be able to walk, run, or try to grab you. Once
active ingredient being oleoresin capsicum. Pepperyou've sprayed your assailant, get out of the area
spray is an inflammatory agent that causes temporaryimmediately Run in the opposite direction of your
blindness and difficulty breathing, which can last up toattacker if possible.
90 minutes. Tear gas is an irritant that inducesWhen you are safe, tell your local law enforcement
coughing, while the dye stains the attacker for lateragency about the attack. This is very important
identification.because it may help police apprehend the attacker,
Although Mace is a brand name, many otherand prevent attacks on others.
companies make a pepper spray or sprayable tearThe use of tear gas or a tear gas weapon, except in
gas designed for self-defense.self-defense, can be a felony. You can get up to three
Mace has six physiological effects that your attackeryears in state prison or up to one year in county jail
may experience:and a fine of up to $1,000.
* Central nervous system: headache, dizziness, andInvestigate before you buy.
extreme general discomfort