Chemical Mace was first marketed for personal defense in the late 1960s by the Smith & Wesson Co.

Originally, Mace was primarily CN (phenacyl chloride) tear gas. It was soon discovered that actual pepper spray, derived from cayenne peppers, reacted faster, lasted longer and was a more effective deterrent than tear gas.

Mace Security still produces a triple defense spray that contains tear gas, but most defense sprays are now actually pepper sprays.

Many states have passed legislation making the use of tear gas illegal, but all states still allow the use of pepper spray for personal defense. Proper storage and use of pepper spray is key to its effectiveness as a defensive tool.

• Store pepper spray in a safe, environmentally controlled space. Excessively cold or hot temperatures will reduce the effectiveness and functionality of pepper spray. Always keep pepper spray away from children and pets.

• Pepper spray has a life expectancy of four years or less. Test the function of the spray every few months and dispose of the spray properly before it reaches its expiration date.

• Be prepared before a situation arises by walking with the pepper spray container clutched in your fist with a thumb on the trigger of the device. This assures the spray will be ready and aimed in the right direction, should an altercation arise.

• Pepper spray works best when sprayed directly into the eyes. With your arm bent, position your fist a forearm’s length in front of your face. Look directly into the perpetrator’s eyes and spray. Move your arm from side to side while spraying to assure proper contact with the perpetrator. Keep your arm bent and away from the assailant.

• Immediately step to the side to avoid the perpetrator’s grasp.

• Repeatedly yell “Stop!” as loud as you can during the entire altercation. Be prepared for the possibility of spray drifting into your face. Get away from the situation as soon as possible.

• If the use of pepper spray sounds too problematic, consider using a tactical flashlight as a defensive tool. Shining a light of 120 lumens or more directly into the face of an assailant can produce 2 to 4 seconds of disorientation, providing an opportunity to flee. Choose a small, rugged, waterproof light that fits comfortably in your hand for the best protection.

— Have a home improvement question for Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at hardware@sunflower.com.