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[[File:Pepper_spray_Demonstration.jpg|thumb|450px|Pepper spray]] is an aerosol containing the pure essential oil of pepper, for use in self defense being used against an aggressor, be it human or animal.]]

Nobody Before considering taking '''pepper spray''' with you, read the entire article about [[hitchhiker's safety]]. Pepper spray is definitely one of the more anti social ways and not many hitchhikers think it's necessary (or even desirable) to bring pepper spray when hitchhiking. Still, nobody wants to think too much about possible negative aspects of hitch hikingencounters while hitchhiking, but if the unthinkable happens, and you find yourself in a dangerous situation. , you might be grateful to be in possession of some [[Pepper Spray]]pepper spray. In some countries it is entirely legal ([[Germany]], for example, as in the south you may encounter bearslarge wild animals.), in other countries it is illegal to carry in public.

Pepper Gel aerosols are also available, which emit a high pressure stream of gel instead of a spray mist, which means that if you need to deploy in an enclosed space, or In locations such as the [[Dalton Highway]] in the wind, [[Alaska]] where you will not be affected by the substance yourselfcan expect wild animals (e.g. bears) taking pepper spray is a very good idea.

== Mode of action ==Pepper spray is an aerosol containing ''capsaicin'', the pure essential oil of pepper, for use in self 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. ==Dangers to the user ==Pepper spray is potentially dangerous in enclosed spaces, as you may find that you are incapacitated to the same extent as the aggressor. Pepper Gel aerosols are an alternative: these emit a high pressure stream of gel instead of a spray mist, which means that if you need to deploy in an enclosed space (like the back of a car, or from inside your tent), or in the wind, you will not be affected by the substance yourself. == Legal Issues - [[Europe]] ==

There are penalties for possession of an this type of offensive weapon in [[Belgium]]. === [[Czech Republic]] ===In the [[Czech Republic]], 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 Spray]] pepper spray in an armoury or military surplus store. It is classified as a '''Category 6 Weapon''' in French law. If the container is of 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]] 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 mountainswild animals. 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). Using it against humans in any other situation than defence from a serious threat is an offence. === [[Italy]] ===In [[Italy]], the Decree of the Ministry of Interior n°103 dated May 12, 2011 removed all restrictions over private purchase, ownership and everyday carry by any citizen over 16 years of age without a criminal record of all and any OC-based compounds and personal defence devices that respond to the countrysidefollowing criteria:* Containing a payload not exceeding 20 ml., it iswith a maximum concentration not exceeding 2, as stated above5%* No flammable propellant* Sealed when sold and featuring a safety device against accidental discharge* With a range not exceeding 3 metres === [[Latvia]] ===In [[Latvia]], legally accepted for use pepper spray in canisters is classified as a defense against large wild animalsself defence device and can be carried by anyone over 16. Pepper spray "pistols" can be carried without a licence by persons over 18.

There are penalties for possession of this type of offensive weapon in the [[Netherlands]]. === [[Poland]] ===Pepper spray is widely available to anyone over 18. While there are tough laws on firearms and other weapons, the carrying of pepper spray is enthusiastically recommended by the police. If you are forced to use it against an aggressor, you are required by law to tell the police straight away - who will want to ask you questions - otherwise you could face charges. === [[Republic of Ireland]] ===There are heavy penalties for possession of this type of offensive weapon in the [[NetherlandsRepublic of Ireland]]. === [[Spain]] ===In [[Spain]], pepper spray is approved by the '''Ministry of Health and Consumption''' for sale to anyone over 18, if it is:* at a concentration no greater than 5%* in canisters containing not more than 22 gramsLegal use is technically confined to self defence against large wild animals, such as wild boar in rural areas.

There are heavy penalties for possession of an this type of offensive weapon in the [[United Kingdom]]. However there is product called FarbGel - which stains the skin of an attacker a bright orange colour which will take at least 7 days to come off - which is permitted in the UK. == Legal Issues - [[North America]] == === [[Canada]] ===There are penalties for possession of this type of offensive weapon in [[Canada]], unless there is a '''lawful excuse'''. Lawful excuse might include defence against large wild animals in some areas, but not self defence against persons in public places, === [[United States of America]] ===The law varies wildly between states.