How to Use Wasp Spray Instead of Pepper Spray for Self Defense

While the sale and use of pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, there are state-specific ordinances regulating its use. Wasp spray and other types of bug spray have been advocated by some as alternatives to pepper spray in situations when it is necessary to defend oneself against an attacker. Those who wish to use wasp spray for this purpose, however, should be aware of the legal restrictions associated with using a neurotoxin for a purpose other than its specific intended use, and also of the limitations of this product as a self-defense tool.

Things You'll Need

• Wasp spray

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Instructions

• 1

  Research the specific ordinances of your city and state pertaining to pesticides and neurotoxins. Federal law prohibits the use of pesticides containing neurotoxins for anything other than their intended purpose, but the laws concerning appropriate and accepted action in self defense vary slightly by state. You may want to consult an attorney as well before deciding to use wasp spray instead of pepper spray for self defense.

• 2

  Spray as close to the attacker's face as possible. If you decide to use wasp spray instead of pepper spray for self defense, or if you find yourself in an emergency situation with no other means of self defense available to stop an assailant, spray the insecticide as close to the victim's face as possible.

• 3

  Get away from the assailant as quickly as possible after spraying them. Call the police, if possible, or run to a crowded place where you can call for help and report the incident. Wasp spray as a self-defense tool is generally thought to be less effective than pepper spray, and depending on the range of the spray and the amount sprayed, the effects may be minimal or temporary, but should allow you enough time to get to safety.