Get BearSmart – Check out this Video on Proper use of Bear Spray
Submitted by Carl Morrison on Fri, 2010-01-22 13:39
Humans account for over 90% of known grizzly bear mortality in Alberta. Although this is a discouraging figure, it speaks volumes of our direct ability and responsibility to reduce our impact on bears. Action Grizzly Bear continues to advocate for increased government funding and staffing for public education and conflict prevention programs such as Alberta’s BearSmart program.
Ultimately your safety, and that of the bears, depends on you. When in bear country take care to avoid bear encounters by making noise, properly storing attractants, traveling in groups and being alert. In the rare case of an aggressive confrontation carry bear spray and know how to use it – it is your best defence. Check out this BearSmart video that provides information and demonstrates proper use of bear spray. For more information about Alberta’s BearSmart program visit: http://srd.alberta.ca/RecreationPublicUse/AlbertaBearSmart/Default.aspx
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Pepper spray, also known as
Pepper spray, also known as OC spray (from "Oleoresin Capsicum"), OC gas, and capsicum spray, is a lachrymatory agent (a chemical compound that irritates the eyes to cause tears, pain, and even temporary blindness) that is used in riot control, crowd control, and personal self-defense, including defense against dogs and bears.
Although considered a less lethal agent, it may be deadly in rare cases, ccnp study guide, and concerns have been raised about a number of deaths where being pepper sprayed may have been a contributing factor. Potential long-term effects of pepper spray have not been effectively researched.
The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, which is a chemical derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, including chilis. Extraction of oleoresin capsicum from peppers involves finely ground capsicum, from which capsaicin is extracted in an organic solvent such as ethanol. The solvent is then evaporated, and the remaining waxlike resin is the oleoresin capsicum. An emulsifier such as propylene glycol is used to suspend the OC in water, and pressurized to make it aerosol in pepper spray. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is used to measure the amount of capsaicin within pepper sprays. Scoville Heat Units (SHU) are used to measure the concentration or "heat" of pepper spray.