Why I Carry Pepper Spray

My name is Lena Bishop, and I carry OC pepper spray every night. I work late and usually walk home through the city. Because of that, I choose to stay prepared.

However, being prepared does not make me invincible. I learned that lesson last fall. Around that time, a late-night confrontation in a downtown parking garage made the news. I was not involved, but the story stayed with me. Then, just a week later, I faced something similar myself.

When It Worked Exactly Right

One night, everything went according to plan. As I crossed a parking garage, I heard fast footsteps behind me. Suddenly, a man started shouting. His voice sounded angry and unpredictable, and he was getting too close.

At that moment, my training took over. I planted my feet and extended my arm. Then I delivered a short burst aimed at his eyes.

The result was immediate. He recoiled and began coughing. His hands went straight to his face as he stumbled. Because of that reaction, I gained a few critical seconds.

I quickly moved away and headed toward a well-lit area. A security guard stood nearby, which added another layer of safety. In that situation, my OC spray worked exactly as intended. It disrupted him, created distance, and gave me the chance to escape.

When It Did Not Work As Expected

Two weeks later, I learned a very different lesson.

That night felt colder, and the wind cut sharply between the buildings. This time, the encounter felt quieter but more dangerous. The man did not shout. Instead, his behavior seemed controlled and predatory.

When I deployed the spray, the wind shifted. As a result, part of the spray blew back into my own face. My eyes burned instantly, and tears blurred my vision.

Meanwhile, the man flinched but kept moving. He did not stop. Whether he was intoxicated, filled with adrenaline, or determined, I could not tell.

In that moment, I realized something important. OC spray is not a guaranteed solution. It is a tool, and every tool has limits.

What I Did Instead

Even so, I did not freeze. I immediately backed away and put distance between us. At the same time, I raised my voice to draw attention.

I also moved carefully, placing obstacles between us whenever possible. Then, a car turned into the garage. Its headlights flooded the area with light.

Because of that sudden visibility, he hesitated. Moments later, he turned and walked away.

What I Know Now

Since those nights, I still carry OC spray. However, I carry it with a different mindset.

I now understand that it works best with distance and proper aim. In addition, conditions like wind can change everything. Most importantly, it should never be my only plan.

Awareness matters. Movement matters. Light and witnesses matter just as much.

Now, I walk with my head up and stay alert. I plan my route ahead of time and always look for exits.

OC spray gives me a chance. It does not guarantee anything. Because of that, I respect it for exactly what it is.