How to Use Pepper Spray or Pepper Gel for Self-Defense

When it comes to personal protection, it is important to have reliable and effective self-defense tools. One of the best options to carry when you go out is Pepper Spray or Pepper Gel. When used correctly these products can help temporarily disable an assailant, giving you time to get away and find help. It’s valuable to know how to use your pepper product before you need it so you are prepared and ready in a stressful situation.

Steps to Using Your Pepper Spray or Pepper Gel

Step 1: Hold the canister firmly, with the nozzle pointed away from your face.

Make sure you know how your spray is designed to be held. The recommended grip is to hold the can within all four fingers, making a fist and using your thumb to press the button. This can help with your aim and control. However, some products like our Accufire series, can be held with your bottom three fingers, while you use your thumb to activate the laser. In this case your index finger should be placed on the spray button.

Step 2: Slide the trigger over to the center position with your index finger or thumb to unlock your device. Aim for the assailant's eyes and nose. This is where the spray will have the greatest effect since it targets the sinus system. 

For Pepper Spray: The solution will deploy as a misting stream pattern, spreading out around their face. Press the trigger or button to release multiple short bursts of spray, directed at the eyes. You can start with 2-3 sprays and send more as needed.

For Pepper Gel: In this type of product, the gel will deploy as a direct stream. To help with your accuracy, you can hold down the trigger or button and draw a line across the attacker's face from ear to ear. This will help make sure you hit their eyes, where the gel will stick and affect them the most. 

After spraying, while your attacker is distracted, quickly move away and find help!

Keep a safe distance from the person and avoid inhaling any fumes. If it is windy you can shield your eyes and keep your mouth closed. If possible, put something between you and the threat, like a car or wall. Guard Dog Security pepper products are long-range, traveling 16 feet. This allows you to keep as much distance as possible from danger.

Practice Makes Perfect

Now that you know how to use your new safety tool, we recommend practicing! This will boost your confidence and build muscle memory. The safest way to practice is by using a Practice Kit. It will allow you to experience the motions without the irritant spray. This also ensures you have a full canister of the defense spray in case you need it. 

You can view our full range of top-rated Pepper Sprays and Pepper Gels on our website. If you need any assistance choosing the best personal safety product for your needs, feel free to chat with our Customer Care team and they will be happy to recommend some options!

Pepper Spray Guidelines Source: NYPD Patrol guide, page 69