New York City (NYC) is known as one of the most packed cities in the world. Apart from the locals, millions of people come to this city every year. It has been known that the more people in a city, the higher the chance for crime to happen. In order to prevent yourself from getting mugged or worse, you may think of bringing something that can protect yourself, especially if you don’t have self-defense skills.
One of the most common things to use to protect yourself from an attacker is pepper spray. In the pepper spray, there is an ingredient called oleoresin capsicum. For those who have no idea about oleoresin capsicum, it refers to oil that originates from the plant of the genus Capsicum where you get those spicy chili peppers. If it is sprayed at someone’s eyes, their eyes will become very teary because it stimulates the tear ducts in no time.
Aside from oleoresin capsicum, pepper spray also consists of capsaicin. This one is a chemical that produces the heat in the chili peppers. However, it is said that the heat in those peppers cannot be hotter than pepper spray. This one has far more concentrations of capsaicin than the chili peppers used in the kitchen.
Before purchasing pepper spray to use while you spend your time in New York City, you may want to know if it is legal first, because you do not want to get arrested for using pepper spray even though your intention is to defend yourself. So, is pepper spray legal in NYC? Would you be okay if you use pepper spray in this city just in case someone is suspicious or harms you?
Apparently, pepper spray is legal in the state of New York, just like in the other states in the United States. It means it is legal in New York City. Before purchasing pepper spray, you have to know all the facts or the guidelines for carrying the bottle.
In fact, the New York Pepper Spray Laws are dictated under the New York Consolidated Laws and Section 265.20 Exemptions of the Penal Laws. According to this law, only a pocket-sized canister of pepper spray is allowed for civilian use. Besides, the law also states that it may contain a chemical or organic substance intended to produce temporary physical discomfort or disability through vaporization, as well as tear gas, pepper, or any similar disabling agent. Second, individuals under 18 should not own a pepper spray bottle based on some state requirements. In some states, convicted felons cannot purchase pepper spray. Bear in mind that it is not allowed to use pepper spray on someone if it is not for self-defense. Not only that, you can also buy this item in certain, authorized places. If you are wondering where you can get pepper spray in this city, you can try to visit Target, DICK’s Sporting Goods, The Home Depot, New York Police Shop, Rite Aid, and so on.
As mentioned before, New York City is known as the city with so many people. That’s why it is better for you to be protected at all times and one of the ways to do it is to use pepper spray. Feel free to carry pepper spray in New York City everywhere you want, as it is legal as long as you are 18 years old or above and follow the other guidelines for using this spray.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
