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Nobody [[File:Pepper_spray_Demonstration.jpg|thumb|450px|Pepper spray being used against an aggressor.]] 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 encounters while hitch hikinghitchhiking, 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 bearslarge wild animals.), in other countries it is illegal to carry in public. In locations such as the [[Dalton Highway]] in [[Alaska]] where you can expect wild animals (e.g. bears) taking pepper spray is a very good idea.

[[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.

== Legal Issues - [[Europe]] ==

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 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). In the countryside, Using it against humans in any other situation than defence from a serious threat is, as stated above, legally accepted for use as a defense against large wild animalsan offence.

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

There are heavy penalties for possession of 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.