How to Avoid the Effects of OC Spray

OC spray (the "OC" standing for "oleoresin capsicum" in reference to the chemical used) is better known as pepper spray. The main purpose of pepper spray is to irritate the eyes and skin of the person who is sprayed, as well as causing pain when inhaled, thus temporarily debilitating them. It is often used by police on criminals, but small cans of pepper spray may be carried by those who feel at risk of attack to offer some protection. Sometimes, you may find yourself the innocent victim of a pepper spray attack, so knowing how to minimize the effects will come in handy.

Things You'll Need

• Baby shampoo
• Eye wash
• Wet towels
• Gas mask
• Waterproof clothing

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear a gas mask if you are in the vicinity of pepper spray. This will help you to avoid any effects of pepper spray if it is sprayed near or on you.

• 2

  Wear clothing that covers all bare skin, and be sure to use materials that do not trap chemicals, thus running the risk of soaking through to your skin. Do not wear contact lenses, as these can also trap the pepper spray and worsen the effects.

• 3

  Leave the area where you were sprayed as soon as possible, remain calm, and slowly breathe in fresh air. This will help avoid a bout of coughing.

• 4

  Apply baby shampoo to any affected areas, as this helps to neutralize the effects of pepper spray. Wash the spray off with water, but be sure to pat your skin dry; rubbing it runs the risk of grinding the chemical further into your skin.

• 5

  Wash your eyes with eye wash liquid or clean running water. If you do not have access to either of these, blink quickly to stimulate the production of tears.

• 6

  Place wet towels over your eyes to minimize any swelling and continued irritation.