College Students and Pepper Spray

An effective and very popular style of pepper spray is one that can fit into the palm of your hand. Compact canisters are easier to carry and help ensure they're with the user when faced with a threat. These small canisters may look innocent to the naked eye, but when the spray they deliver hits the eyes, it causes immediate eye closure helping one escape to safety. Walk with a relaxed alertness, pepper spray in hand and scan the area. Having a few moments of space or distance between you and your attacker significantly increases your chances of escaping a dangerous situation.

While there may be few people outside on campus when attacks occur, that does not mean help is far off. Use loud verbal commands to deter a threat before an attack ensues. Some safety professionals suggest as soon as you hit the attacker with pepper spray to the eyes, run and yell “Fire!” They claim the word “Fire” brings more support and attention than any other call for help.