How to Train for Use of Self-Defense Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a personal-use, self-defense item that is inexpensive, easy to obtain and portable. In order for pepper spray to be effective, you need to understand the proper way to use it. Once proper handling of the spray and technique in using it has been achieved, you will be better prepared to use when you need to protect yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Goggles
• Gloves
• Face mask
• Cardboard target

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Learn the different types of pepper spray available for personal use. The commercial-grade pepper spray used by law enforcement officials is more potent than spray used by civilians.

• 2

  Purchase more than one bottle of pepper spray. Make sure to buy the same brand, size and strength spray in the various bottles. Keep one or two cans of the spray in a separate locations.

• 3

  Take one or two cans of the pepper spray to an open, well-ventilated area to practice using the spray. Put on gloves and goggles for your first few attempts to help stave off accidents. Use a face mask if you have breathing problems such as asthma, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Put on all protective gear prior to using the spray for the first time.

• 4

  Remove the pepper spray from its holder if it is enclosed in one. Remove all packaging material such as plastic overlay or cardboard. Make sure that the nozzle is in the open position.

• 5

  Point the nozzle away from your face and body and depress the top of the pepper spray to release the agents. Hold down the nozzle head long enough to achieve a steady stream of pepper spray. Move your hand and arm slightly to gauge how the flow changes with movement.

• 6

  Place a cardboard cutout in the shape of a human 3 to 5 feet away. Repeat the process of releasing the pepper spray and aim for the target. Move your arm from side to side as needed to hit the target. Repeat the process by standing closer to and farther away from the target. Pay close attention to how the pepper spray stream changes based on distance from a target.

• 7

  Enroll in a self-defense class if, after practicing using pepper spray, you are still hesitant or unsure about your ability to use the device in the event it is needed. In an emergency situation, you will not have time to make as many adjustments as you did during practice.