And this is just me going to walk my dog and going to work nowhere else! As others have said if it ends up in court the burden is then on you to prove you needed to use the spray. Self-defense sprays are categorized as weapons in New Jersey. The only acceptable and legal use of pepper spray is for self-defense, which means when you or another person's life is in danger. And I've only once ever been pickpocketed and even then all they got was a broken mobile phone! Yet, what if I bought a bigger spray bottle and took it with me to Europe, would the airports allow me to take it with me? please upgrade IE 11 or later, Alternatively, you can install and use these secure and newest browsers: Chrome | Firefox | Safari for MacOS | Edge for Windows. Id imagine that in most cases the attacker would just leave you alone. WA is the only State that pepper spray is legal to buy or own, as it is a controlled . Think a moment about that. Megan, That question has been asked before on the HelpLine, so I'll reiterate some of the comments I've used in the past. It is allowed in a few countries, but must conform to a specific formulation / strength, which again could vary by . In Hungary it is FREE TO OWN any kind of tear gas/irritant spray. The regulations on this vary by country, and in some it's considered a prohibited weapon. Pepper spray is not allowed to hold in Sweden without special permission. Much more likely somebody would try to rob you here in US than in Europe. In Pennsylvania there are no restrictions on the lawful use of pepper spray. It is legal to Cary a pepper spray in lithuania for people above 16 years old. Pepper spray is classified as an illegal weapon under Canada's Firearms Act. So CS, CN, CR are LEGAL. Of course these two spays differ mainly in what the label and manual says, but I wouldn't carry an American one which advertises its use as a self defense tool against people Laws and laws: Until a few weeks ago when they banned the whole mess, you could buy synthetic marijuana (labeled as incense) at every convenience store in Florida - - as long as it had a 'not for human consumption' sticker, had a yet-unbanned goofey incredient, and was described as a particular fragrance rather than a flavor. You are responsible for knowledge of and compliance with all Federal, State or local laws regarding the possession and transportation of firearms. It is not life threatening like carrying a knife, or a gun, the knife crime in this country is so high now that I can not for the life of me think why having a pepper spray of some sort for self defense is illegal, My son was robbed at knife point, and beaten, carrying a can of pepper spray would make him and us, as parents feel safer, against criminals, I mean its not going to kill them but would maybe prevent an attack of any kind. It works a lot better. However, if in the worst case scenario I were to get robbed (which isn't impossible, just not very likely if you travel smart and safe), I personally would just give the guy what he wants, get away with my life and make my way to the police. However it is legal to carry only those under 20 grams of payload, and NON-pepper ones. In the United Kingdom, "Any weapon of whatever description designed or adapted for the discharge of any noxious liquid, gas or other thing" is a Prohibited Weapon, under S.5 of The Firearms Act 1968. Typically, it is legal to carry pepper spray in public. In Slovakia, pepper spray is classified as a self-defence weapon, and it is available to anyone over 18. And when prosecuted its a very high percentage of immigrants being convicted for these crimes. You are going to leave your jewelry at home. However, the Finnish Supreme Court has recently ruled in KKO:2010:7 that owning a pepper spray in itself is not a punishable act; but, on the other hand, carrying one can be punished as a device capable of harming other people. The most notable example of this is Washington State, where it is legal for 14-year-olds to possess pepper spray so long as they have permission from their parent or guardian. Should I even consider taking something like that with me? Because a lot of these bogus asylum seekers come from misogynistic societies mostly islamic ones where they are told that unveiled women white women especially are fair game to be sexually assaulted. Pepper spray is a widely recognised non-lethal deterrent that can be used for self-defence, ultimately reducing the risks of assault for both women and men. Sprays intended for use against animals like the ones the postal workers carry aren't -- legally -- weapons at all but tools, and can therefore be owned and carried by anybody. In Latvia, pepper spray in canisters is classified as a self-defence device and can be bought and carried by anyone over 16 years of age. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. It's why Chiu and other legal experts urge caution when carrying and using the devices. Rape,murder and crime thats all they bring send them back. It is legal to buy pepper spray which stays it's against dogs, however it's illegal if it's says it's against humans. Knife crime in UK cities is out of control and the police can not change that. CS is considered a weapon and is not permitted. IF (if!!!!!!) Whatever. In the Netherlands pepper spray is illegal for civilians to own and carry. It is classified in French law as a category 6 weapon. Because of the strong effect authorities like (Federal) police or German armed forces rely on the use of pepper spray in dangerous situations. I like how every single one of you are positive and wise! I would much rather dust someone down that is being aggrieve towards me knowing that I can walk or run away without getting physical. However, even in countries where pepper spray may be legal with a license, the use of it against any person generally constitutes assault in the EU. Well, the ingredients have to be properly listed with special emphasis on the allergens, as well as how to dispose of the case. I will keep searching the internet for answers. Even those that would be illegal in any other case. Free to carry, too. If you poled all the people who write into this site, I would think you would be Very Pleasantly Surprised to hear how Few Problems have been had. In self defence you shoot the guy. In Switzerland, Germany and Portugal, pepper spray is allowed with a license. Furthermore, these "small weapons" are only for emergency use and are not allowed to be carried in public in Germany. One trip will solve most of those problems. And buy a personal defense weapon if you pass the psychiatrist tests and pass all the courses to buy a safe. Therefore, it is entirely legal to use pepper spray in appropriate situations throughout the United States, including in the act of self defense, however you must make sure that you follow . If you want to buy one do yourself a favor an buy it in a specialised gun store where staff can advise you. If traveling via plane, you cannot carry mace or pepper spray in your pocket into the cabin of the plane with you. Find another way to deal with the bears. Take a look here. There are pepper sprays for use against animals, but the law is often not that clear. Pasting a mugger with shaving foam or toothpaste just is not going to cut it, but it would be normal to think that a criminal would think twice about the possibility that they may end up with a face full of Mace. It is illegal to buy pepper spray in Australia across its States and Territories, except Western Australia. With a heavy emphasis on defense. Rather, the sprays are designed to mark an attacker with both a visible and invisible marker dye. You are going to keep your passport, credit cards and money safe in a Money Belt. Cans that are not labelled as animal repellents or have a longer span fall under the Weapons Act and are prohibited. It is completely legal to possess and carry pepper spray, tear gas spray, or any other conventional self-defense spray in the state of North Carolina. If a would be assailant is prepared to inflict harm on another person in the course of a crime, it would be reasonable to expect that they would deserve some form of retaliation in return. At least in Bayern it is so. All hurt like shit. I wish I could carry at least pepper spray, but even better would be a SW .44 pistol and an ankle case .32 With all the kidnappings, rapes and murders of recent times and the threat, with hardly any really solid defense against it, I think it`s quite reasonable for civilians (especially women), have the option to apply for a license and purchase one directly from selected governments with non-fungible token (NFT) companies following them, so that, if stopped, the police can trace the pepper spray directly back to the original buyer to see if A. pepper spray is legal or a spray purchased illegally, that the person holding it is the officially authorized owner and that his licence is up to date C. the incident in which it is used and others in which they have used pepper spray to defend themselves in the past is recorded and tracked on the blockchain on the NFT. is the type of nuisance you could run into. The repellant can technically be pepper spray, as long as it's designated purpose is to fend off animals. ** SABRE pepper sprays are available in various sizes of containers, including mini and compact models designed to be conveniently attached to your keychain for easy access at a moment's notice. If you travel smartly (see the "Safety" section on this site) and imagine that you are in your own town not a dangerous U.S. city, you will have a Wonderful and Safe trip. If it happens that you are in a justified situation of self-defence, you are allowed to use all items you carry with you to defend yourself without fear of prosecution, even the pepper spray you only intended to use to defend yourself against animals. Carrying it at (or on the way to and from) demonstrations may still be punished Sprays that are not labelled "animal-defence spray" or do not bear the test mark of the Materialprfungsanstalt (MPA, material testing institute) are classified as prohibited weapons. Do you think pepper spray should be legal for civilians for self-defense purposes? Possession, carrying and use by ordinary citizens is prohibited under section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968. I strongly reject. In Germany, the only allowed pepper spray is for the defense against animals. Whether such a spray is necessary depends on where you live, but if it gives you peace of mind go for the animal repellant. Yes, pepper spray should be legal for use in self defense in the UK. Carrying it at (or on the way to and from) demonstrationsmay still be punished. I was almost mugged last week (but got away) and would like to have some way to protect myself should this ever happen again. Members of the riot police use pepper spray bombs larger than those used by an ordinary police officer. Pepper spray should be allowed in the UK with a licence and conditions allowing for strict control. Lots of women European, American, Asian, Austrailian travel on their own in Europe, solo and in pairs. The visible dye often takes at least 7 days to come off. CS, CR, PAM (), and (rarely) CN are also legal and highly popular. Pepper Sprays are legal in Germany but require a "kleiner Waffenschein". Thats pretty much correct, its sold as Tierabwehrspray, although I dont know whether DM stocks it. Hope that's what you meant. It doesn't matter when it's truly self-defense. The police cannot protect everyone from assault, so every law-abiding British citizen has the right and duty to protect themselves and their loved ones. Press J to jump to the feed. It is an offense to use pepper spray on anyone for reasons other than self-defense. In France trade is license-free and ownership is legal for those over 18 but carry can be punished with a fine depending from the quantity and concentration. If you decided to use it, you could very easily be arrested and face prosecution. Would that not be tie ideal outcome from an attack irrespective weather or not you are made or female? A French military aviator can roll in on the ranges at Cazaux with enough ordnance hanging to blow half of Bordeaux to kingdom come, but can't get his pistol out of the armory without a note from mommy, and can't have bullets for it unless he's flying out of the country. Example: You illicitly own a handgun. The police also encourage vulnerable groups such as pensioners and women to wear pepper spray. As pointed out above, I say also that pepper spray in your possesion is a bad idea, even if it WERE not prohibited by TSA..still a bad idea, ie., don't consider it. Third, you can only react in the moment, and you cannot take revenge. The study from two universities stressed that no pressure should be exerted on the neck area. 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy. The military carrier permit is granted after having spent half a day of training. There is a saying (and even the tone of the U.S. government advice implies) that anything can be purchased in Mexico for the right price. However, there are certain cases where pepper spray has to remain concealed or is prohibited in various buildings and establishments. Megan, I've been watching. Second, even the article you linked doesn't say it's illegal. I guess I just have to quit over thinking and live life. No. You are not going to go down dark alleys or go anywhere with strange men. So you can't mace a drunk just because you feel insecure in his presence. Pepper spray handguns can be bought and carried without any licence by anyone over 18. I guess you could say that I am a real young person who's just starting out, and I never had any guidance on major events such as this. Anyhoo, I went to my local for a coffee today and the landlady tried to give me her pepper spray that she keeps behind the bar but told her to keep it in case she needed it. Pepper spray can be legally purchased and used in Canada if: A) The spray clearly indicates on its dispenser that it is intended for animal, such as bear mace, and not human use In addition to the TSA restrictions for flights, it's illegal in many countries in Europe. However, the process of obtaining a license in some countries can be extremely strict. This product sprays up to 16 feet (5 m) away. (Not that other countries don't have different, more stupid ideas about self defense.). Any adult can go into a store and purchase pepper-spray. However, the process to obtain a license in some countries can be extremely rigorous. Citizens are . It's okay to carry this to the city, it's allowed, but pepper spray isn't. 2. Pepper Spray isn't human-friendly; bear spray is In addition, it is only in 2 places to be alowed, hidden on you or locked up safely, if you break the rules, go to jail. It's you who has to prove that in court. I think the "system" is easier to follow in Germany than is the case in France if you don't know the language. For example you can use pepper spray on an attacker to escape, using it to win a fight you didn't start isn't covered. One place that pepper spray is not allowed is commercial airlines. A local police spokesman said: It is illegal to possess and use pepper spray, so she will likely to be charged for that. She also faced a 50 fine. Conclusions based on bum/incomplete scoop ain't so good. Self-defense products in high demand in Germany. While pepper spray is illegal in Canada to carry or use as a potential mode of defence there is one exception. She's in Antarctica. Go to England first, after a while you'll see how easy it is to get around, that fear of the unknown will dissipate. Guard Dog Pepper Spray. Police carry OC sprays of higher concentration. DON'T leave your drink unattended and preferably be in a group of two or more so that you watch out for each other. This is against the law in Japan, as pocket knives are regarded as weapons. What ever you do, make sure you're in danger, not just someone you feel may be about to attack you. If enough people shout loud enough, maybe we can be heard? From looking at Pepper spray / mace - defence against dog attacks briefly, it seems to be legal. You are charged for the illegal possession of a handgun. Nevertheless crime happens everywhere. (The Supreme Court is considering whether to hear a case about one of the remaining stun gun bans; see this . Pepper spray, and Other small non-lethal weapons. Its time to ask the people who are at risk if they think the uk should follow the example of Europe and give women the right to defend themselves using pepper spray if they wish , or is it down to men to decide what is good for women, lets hold the decision makes responsible . That actually sounds really great. Sprays of greenhouse-relevant blowing agents such as R134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane) are prohibited. is also authorized after approval by the Minister of the Interior. I have had a BIG problem with stalkers lately. If an aggressor is willing to inflict harm on another person as part of a crime, it would be reasonable to expect that he or she would deserve some form of retaliation in return. WA is the only State that pepper spray is legal to buy or own, as it is a controlled weapon which means that it is restricted but not illegal. Legality of Pepper Spray. There have been few controlled clinical trials on the human health effects of pepper spray marketed for police use, and these studies are contradictory. Since I'm from Louisiana, I always bring a travel-sized bottle of Tabasco in my checked luggage. She is just inexperienced, and in her own words, her "Americanized" way of thinking, along with probably a little nervousness about the whole undertaking, is leading her to question everything she has read or been told. I have one of those at home. I would find it hard to believe that a person cannot use whatever weapon he can put his hands on to defend himself from a potentially life-threatening situation, even at the risk of seriously injuring/killing the assailant. Let us know in the comments below. Megan, I believe you should ask questions in planning your trip and that afterwards undertake to go on that trip. someone wanted something, they would more than likely cleverly (but safely) pick your pocket/purse/backpack. Keep it and never listen to Cary it has been revealed, or under the influence of alcohol (just your prison for that), if you go out for a pint, you have to leave our house. Only likelihood of it is much smaller outside of the USA. Pepper spray must be allowed in uk. Travel is easy. "It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistant with its labeling." Also, it doesn't work. Germans are increasingly buying self-defense products, according to a weapons industry group survey. However, the police continues using guns as frequently as before, causing the Danish civil liberties organization KRIM to conclude that pepper spray has not displaced the use of guns but merely added to the arsenal of weapons of the police force. [21] As a result of these studies and deaths, many law enforcement agencies have decided to include policies and training to prevent deaths in positions. It is written on the link posted above that pepper spray is only allowed for used on animals in Germany, so they are telling you about it and that's why they say they recommend the other spray, CS spray. In Germany NO licence required for Peppersprays (pfefferspray) IF there is a TIERABWHERGERAT (defense against animals) label on them. He advised getting one of the new personal attack alarms that not only attract attention by making a noise but also emit UV-marking and foul smelling liquid. yes , the way uk cities have become with immigrants from war torn countries who have brought horrible crimes such as acid attacks and gangs raping and grooming teen girls we should be able to use tasers and Cs gas for defense, do research. In Switzerland, Germany, and Portugal, pepper spray is permitted with a license. I now believe Megan is not a serious poster ( hesitate to use the "t" word) but if she is, she should never leave Wilkesboro. Arizona has no laws that prohibit individuals from carrying or using pepper spray. She said she'd tell her son to get me a can that I can keep in my pocket if I'm out in my garden late at night. This tool shall not be used to threaten, coerce, or harm another individual or animal unless the same is attempted on you. The head of the FBI`s less-than-lethal weapons program at the time of the 1991 study, Special Agent Thomas W. W. Ward, was fired by the FBI and sentenced to two months in prison for receiving payments from a pepper spray manufacturer while he was conducting and writing the FBI study that eventually approved pepper spray for FBI use. Justice Minister Kaycee Madu sent a letter to his federal counterpart and . Cheers! I did a quick search and couldn't find much on the Personal Attack Alarmas, but found a store which sells some other kind of spray which is (according to the store) legal for defence against humans in Germany. If you already have one which doesn't have any of the mentioned labels please be aware that the police (if they stop you randomly) will file a charge for owning a forbidden weapon. Pepper sprays can be owned and worn by adults without registration or authorization. You should be prosecuted IF you use Pepper spray offensively, but purely in the defensive role should and must be 100% legal. Well, either they're selling illegal stuff, or pepper spray is legal. In addition to the TSA restrictions for flights, it's illegal in many countries in Europe. no, if the government wants to prosecute you for harming a person, they have to prove that the person did not attack you. However, there is no restriction for pepper gas pistol cartridges. In the United Kingdom too, the rights of the aggressor are placed above the rights of the victim. Apparently attack alarms are about the size of a mobile phone now, so probably handbaggable. Laglig frsvarsspray | Kjell.com Michael Karnerfors IS PEPPER SPRAY LEGAL IN NY? Oh ok. So if someone steals your iPhone today, you won`t be able to spray it when you see it next week. I don't know if you'll get in trouble if you use the dog spray on someone who was clearly attacking you. Long story short, while having a cigarette in my garden in the early hours of yesterday morning a man entered my garden in, what I assume, was an attempt to enter my house. animals. If you want to own a pepper spray, It's best to check with your district . of agent. Illegal on airplanes and in most countries. This was introduced following the shooting of a number of mentally ill citizens in 2006, where 4 people were killed. The purchaser also cannot have a record of assault or felony convictions in any state. It doesn't require specialized training or holsters. To carry on school property, the user must have permission and be at least 21 years old. Please note that for carrying this one you need to be at least 14 years old. And, if I can't ever manage to go beyond the limits of my own home town, then I'll never go anywhere or do anything with my life, and I don't want that. . I deal with two small banks who are used to me so they don't mess with my atm cards - - had I to deal with somebody else, that'd be a during hours call. The Alberta government is asking Ottawa to amend the Criminal Code to allow people to carry pepper spray for self-defence. Containing a payload not exceeding 20 ml., with a percentage of Oleoresin Capsicum not exceeding 10% and a maximum concentration of capsaicin and capsaicinoid substances not exceeding 2,5%; Containing no flammable, corrosive, toxic or carcinogenic substances, and no other aggressive chemical compound than OC itself; Being sealed when sold and featuring a safety device against accidental discharge; Featuring a range not exceeding 3 metres.