Here's a few pepper spray tips you should keep in mind when using this non-lethal weapon.

There is much to be said for all the non lethal self defense weapons on the market today steel batons, stun guns, tasers, pepper sprays, et. al. They all have their strong points. They all work, they are generally very inexpensive and they are all LEGAL.

Please note that some cities and states have restrictions on stun guns, pepper sprays and tasers. So check with your local police department to be sure you are within the law before you get one.

Many people forget that non lethal self defense weapons are not meant to maim or injure the attacker. They won't do that. Their sole purpose is to allow the victim to escape and avoid any personal harm or at least greatly diminish it.

Pepper spray uses Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) which comes from cayenne pepper. Defensive pepper sprays are measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU's) a common measure of a products' "hotness". A jalapeno pepper has an SHU of 5000, a habanero pepper 300,000 and a typical pepper spray will be in the 2 million SHU range.

It causes the attacker to have shortness of breathe, have temporary blindness due to excessive tearing and the eyes actually shutting down, coughing and choking.

Once you have a pepper spray here are some tips to get the most out of it should you ever need/when you need to use it.

• 1. LEARN how to use the pepper spray. Read the directions. Get help if necessary. Become proficient in its use.
• 2. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE on how to use it. Make it second nature. Even role play with friends for different scenarios so when the time comes it is second nature for you. A split second of hesitation can be costly.
• 3. STORE the spray in a cool place not a hot unventilated vehicle. Pay attention to the expiration date and always makes sure it works.
• 4. AIM for the eyes. Do not mess around. Even if you miss the eyes and hit the face much damage can be done.
• 5. HIT AND RUN-don't stand around watching. Get the … out of there and seek safety, call for help, but get out.

Follow these 5 tips and you may someday be able to save your own life.