What Makes Pepper Spray So Effective?

Most of us have heard of pepper spray. It is used by military and police forces to subdue dangerous criminals in a non-lethal way. Popular shows, such as "Cops" and "CSI" have shown or portrayed pepper spray being used to stop attackers. Some of these attackers are under the influence of very dangerous drugs, such as methamphetamines, hallucinogenics, and extremely high amounts of alcohol and unknown mixtures of any number of drugs. These drugs can make users stronger, less susceptible to pain and more volatile. So, how is it that one substance, such as pepper spray, can stop them all? Why is it so effective?

The Science Behind the Spray
Pepper spray is a derivative of cayenne pepper, more specifically, various parts of the cayenne pepper plant. When this derivative is sprayed on an assailant, it invades the lungs, eyes and sinuses. Once there, it causes burning and swelling, incapacitating the would-be assailant. A person that has been sprayed with pepper spray cannot fight back because he or she cannot breathe. The inability to breath stops the attacker, regardless of the drug or drugs he or she may be on.

The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin. It is the same ingredient that gives cayenne and other peppers their sting. However, with pepper spray, the capsaicin is extremely concentrated, resulting in what is known as a substance called oleoresin capsicum. Once introduced to the respiratory system, oleoresin capsicum has the ability to render any individual helpless.

Physical Effects of Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is so effective because it causes a variety of physical reactions that can lead to disorientation and fear. When combined with the physical effects, this disorientation and fear can serve to slow an assailant down or completely stop him or her from continuing in an attack. As such, it serves as an equalizer for cases where the officer or military personnel is smaller or weaker than the attacker.

According to the Scoville scale, a unit of measure for the heat a pepper can produce, pepper spray ranked higher than habanero and cayenne peppers. When the active ingredient comes in contact with skin, it causes swelling of skin and tissues, with intense pain, redness and inflammation. It closes the air ways, restricting oxygen creating hypertension, headache, reflex mucus secretion and possible inability to speak and breath. Although it is rare, pepper spray has been linked to death in cases where asthma was a pre-existing condition or where there was another serious health condition.

Benefits of Fly Fishing in Alaska

Fly fishing in Alaska is plenty of fun for the avid outdoorsman. If you like to fish, there is a huge opportunity to catch many types of fish in Alaska. Fly fishing can be enjoyed in various regions of Alaska and the choices seem to be limitless. There are oceans, lakes, streams, and rivers in most parts of Alaska. The fact that there is salt water and fresh water fishing areas available all over the state makes it possible to catch a wide variety of fish in different environments.

Tips for Alaskan Flyfishing
Flyfishing in Alaska can be done successfully with some tips and tricks. It doesn’t have to be frustrating for the first-time flyfisherman in Alaska. Depending on the type of water that you want to fish in, there are ways to make it easier and ensure that fishing will be bountiful. It simply requires some useful tips and knowledge to be successful at flyfishing in Alaska.

For those that like to fish in streams and rivers, there can seem to be an overabundance of other fishermen. Some of the more popular streams and rivers have this issue. It can make it seem as though the fish are scared to bite. However, there are a couple of tips to help you. Using patterns that are subdued and minimized can be helpful in these busy areas. Make sure to have smaller sizes in your flyfishing gear in case this strategy is needed.

Although flyfishing in the ocean is less popular, there are those that enjoy it immensely and are quite successful at catching the many different species in the ocean’s saltwater. Some of the best places to catch saltwater fish species is in the-inter tidal areas around mouths of rivers and streams. Many fishermen report catching plenty of Pacific salmon in those spots along the river mouths and streams that are filled with waters and fish from the ocean.

There are still bodies of water in Alaska. The still bodies of water are typically ponds and lakes. Having the right equipment can help access these waters and fish. The use of a canoe or a kick boats is common. Sometimes access to still waters is difficult, often requiring navigation through forests that requires creative traveling. Bears can be a concern in the forest area and having bear spray is recommended at all times, no matter where in Alaska one is fishing. You may also want to try the UDAP Bear Spray Backpack!

Once you have found some great fishing spots to enjoy the sport, there are some tips that can make it easier. Knowing some methods that will make fly fishing more fruitful can help. Removing the hook on a fish that is large can be a challenge but it can be done easier. One tip is to turn the fish upside down and this results in the fish not struggling because it becomes disoriented. This makes it much easier to remove the hook and results in less injury to a catch. Having good knot methods for fly fishing in Alaska is helpful as well. A useful tip is to use an open clinch knot as it is one of the most effective knots for anglers. Also, don’t forget to carry UDAP bear spray because Alaska is known for having a large bear population in and around its lakes, forests, and streams.

College Campus Safety

Rape is practically an epidemic on college campuses. Statistics show that college-aged students are at the highest risk of being raped or sexually assaulted, and many of these assaults are by someone the victim knows well. It's a frightening thought, especially for those who are going away to college for the first time this fall.

Rape and sexual assault are serious issues that nobody should have to face first-hand, and although rape is never the fault of the victim there are still plenty of things that college-age students can do to keep themselves safe.

Walking to Class or Walking Home
Contrary to what some people believe, most rapes aren't committed by strangers who attack women late at night. Most rapes are committed by those who know the victim. Then again, "stranger rapes" can still happen to people walking home at night, along with muggings and other forms of assault. To protect yourself, try not to go out by yourself after dark if you can help it. Walk with friends, try to stick to well-lit or crowded places, avoid shortcuts and don't wear headphones or ear buds. If someone asks you for directions or a question from a vehicle, answer from a distance. Don't get within arms length of the vehicle. Finally, if you are assaulted during your walk, it helps to have a can of pepper spray with you. Pepper spray is very painful when sprayed into the eyes, and it has been known to incapacitate even the largest and most dangerous assailants.

Drinking Responsibly
Whether people want to admit it or not, drinking alcohol is a big part of the college experience. Schools are full of young men and women who are away from home for the first time and may be getting their first true taste of alcohol. Needless to say, they don't always handle it responsibly. Sadly, many people also take advantage of this kind of irresponsible drinking and use it as a chance (or excuse?) to sexually assault others.

If you go to a party, a bar or anywhere else where you may be drinking, do your best to be responsible. Don't drink on an empty stomach since that will cause the alcohol to be absorbed by your body more quickly, always make sure that you have a sober friend with you and keep a close eye on your drink so that nobody has the chance to slip something into it.

Above all else, learn to trust your gut whenever you're in an unfamiliar situation. If something doesn't feel right to you or you feel uncomfortable about a certain situation, don't be afraid to leave. Your intuition can tell you more than you know, so you should listen to it at all times. It could save your life. And be sure to carry UDAP Pepper Spray the world’s hottest pepper spray!

Four Tips to Prepare Anyone for Any Hike

Hiking is a fun past time that brings out the most adventurous at heart who wish to experience complete nature submersion, as well as physical challenges that promote a healthy lifestyle. While it may be tempting to just take off into nature, there are some important tips that can help you enjoy your time hiking even more. With some attention to some key details, you can be sure to have a fun and safe hike.

Plan Ahead
Hiking is something that like the boy scouts, you need to be prepared for. Research what each trail consists of before venturing down it, so that you know what you are up against, and are able to bring the proper equipment, according to the Grand Canyon National Park Service. Plenty of water is essential for any hike. It is also important to bring energy boosting snacks. An extra supply is also a good idea, in case of an emergency. One should also be aware of the weather, and make sure to dress appropriately and wear sunscreen. When venturing out on a hike, use the buddy system and to try not to hike alone. Hats, UDAP Bear Spray Backpack, non-cotton clothing, bandanas, ID, healthcare cared, and credit card, and a first aid kit with a fire starting mechanism are useful tools to have when embarking on a long hike.

Leave No Trace
When you are enjoying nature, and the unspoiled natural environment you are in, it is important to leave the environment in the condition in which you found it, according to Alexander Davies of Discovery News. With the exception of picking up human waste and litter left behind by former hikers, it is best to leave the natural habitat as it is. If rock piles are discovered, you should leave them be. You should not carve out new trails, or destroy living matter. You should not do anything that would cause the natural living organisms of the wild to experience any difficulties; causing them to become sick, or even die. This is to ensure that the cherished natural spaces remain in such a state for future generations to come. You must be respectful of nature, and do all that is possible to reduce their impact and footprint upon it. It is as beautiful as it is still because of its lack of human inhabitation.

Have the Proper Gear
In addition to the above-mentioned food, water, and clothing, you should be sure to carry a compass, pocketknife and map. If the hike takes place where the weather gets cold, it is best to bring warm clothing. When camping overnight, it is key to have really great gear such as a UDAP Bear Spray, tent, camping pad, sleeping back, backpack, etc. These can aid in your survival, not matter how rough the conditions.

Be Cognizant of Wild Animals
You may encounter a wild animal, or several during a hike, make sure that you are carrying your UDAP Bear Spray. Be sure to research the wild animals of the area that you are going to be hiking in, as well as studying these animals, and the ways in which you should interact when faced with such a confrontation. Be respectful of the animals and know which plants are edible, as well as which insects, spiders, and snakes are poisonous.

Having the best hiking equipment can aid in preparations for what is ahead. Protection from harmful forces is greater when the equipment used is of the highest quality.

Real Estate Market is Booming

The real estate market is booming, in part thanks to the oil field workers. Realtors are having problems finding houses to sell and sellers are benefiting from the bidding wars on multiple offers.

And while the multiple offers sound good, it’s not all good for realtors. Recently, in New York, a homeless man robbed a real estate agent at knife point as she showed him an empty house. According to USA Today, 2 real estate agents were killed as they were showing a house and another robbed.

Real Estate Agents need to show houses, but they need to stay safe as well! UDAP has an electric stun gun with a flashlight to help. The agent can carry the stun gun in his/her hand while showing a house, using it as a flashlight and it’s ready to go if needed. Keep yourself safe. For more information, you can view our entire selection at UDAP.com!