Changes

Nobody wants to think too much about possible negative encounters while hitch hiking, but if the unthinkable happens, and you find yourself in a dangerous situation, you might be grateful to be in possession of some [[Pepper pepper spray]]. In some countries it is entirely legal ([[Germany]], for example, as in the south you may encounter bears.), in other countries it is illegal to carry in public.

[[Pepper spray]] is an aerosol containing ''capsaicin'', the pure essential oil of pepper, for use in self defense defence against an aggressor, be it human or animal. It works by irritating the eyes, skin and airways, causing the eyes to snap shut involuntarily, the sensation of being "set alight", violent coughing and disorientation. The effects last around 30 minutes, giving you time to escape and call for help, whilst leaving the aggressor with no permanent damage. It is used by police forces the world over as a non lethal weapon.

In the [[Czech Republic]], [[Pepper pepper spray]] is not classified as weapon and its possession is legal. Police also encourage vulnerable groups like pensioners and women to carry pepper spray.

In [[France]], it is legal for anyone over the age of 18 to buy a [[Pepper pepper spray]] in an armoury or military surplus store. It is classified as a '''Category 6 Weapon''' in French law. If the aerosol contains more than 100ml, it is classed as an offensive weapon, and possession in a public place can be punished by confiscation and a fine. However, if it contains less than 100ml, while still a Category 6 Weapon, it is not classed as a punishable offence for the purposes of the Weapons law, so if you are controlled, it will be confiscated with ''maybe'' a verbal warning given.

[[Pepper spray]] is sold in [[Germany]] to anyone over the age of 18. as a defense defence against bears, which, especially in the south of the country, are common in the forests and mountains. It is also accepted (technically illegal, but the police don't care) that women or vulnerable people may carry one to protect against rape or other aggression. Explaining to the police that you are an independent traveller and that it is your only defense defence will usually be enough to satisfy the officer (in urban areas). In the countryside, it is, as stated above, legally accepted for use as a defense defence against large wild animals.

In [[Latvia]], pepper spray in canisters is classified as a self defense defence device and can be carried by anyone over 16. Pepper spray "pistols" can be carried without a licence by persons over 18.

Legal use is technically confined to self defense defence against large wild animals, such as wild boar in rural areas.

There are penalties for possession of this type of offensive weapon in [[Canada]], unless there is a '''lawful excuse'''. Lawful excuse might include defense defence against large wild animals in some areas, but not self defense defence against persons in public places,