Changes

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 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.

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). Using it against humans in any other situation than defence from a serious threat is an offence. === [[Italy]] ===In [[Italy]], the countrysideDecree of the Ministry of Interior n°103 dated May 12, it is2011 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 following criteria:* Containing a payload not exceeding 20 ml., as stated abovewith a maximum concentration not exceeding 2, legally accepted for use as 5%* No flammable propellant* Sealed when sold and featuring a defense safety device against large wild animals.accidental discharge* With a range not exceeding 3 metres

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.

In [[Spain]], pepper spray at a concentration of 5% and in canisters of 22 grams or less, is approved by the '''Ministry of Health and Consumption''' and is available for sale to anyone older than over 18 years, primarily as if it is:* at a defense 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 the mountainsrural areas.

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.

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,