Bug spray being used as thug repellent, or an alternative to pepper sprays, has been a popular email hitting my inbox recently. Supposedly, the wasp spray temporarily blinds an attacker until they get to the hospital for an antidote. People are keeping bug sprays close at hand and it doesn’t attract attention from people like a can of pepper spray would.

Looking at the label, there is a printed Precautionary Statement directly on each can with specific warnings to humans and domestic animals. “Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing.” Also, it says, “Do no apply to humans, pets, plants or contaminate feed etc..” Of course, it is a given that the use of wasp spray has never been tested on humans and with our eagerness to chase ambulances and sue someone, the use of bug spray for self-defense could turn into a legal nightmare for the original victim.

There are other legal issues as well considering this warning printed on each and every can: “It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.”

But what if the manufacturers of these chemicals should do a little more testing and add an alternative use for these poisons.

Now Kills Flies Faster

Spray directly at stray wasps and thugs that enter the building.

Would changing the outdoor fresh scent to the scent of money be considered entrapment? What about other scents? The Bullpen could smell of urine, beer and vomit, just like the streets of New Orleans at Mardi Gras. Or maybe introduce Jailbird Juniper, this could be the familiar scent of those cheap toilet cakes found in two-star diners and port-o-lets.

In 2005, Florida passed a “Stand Your Ground” law. This law was designed to protect law abiding citizens from arrest, prosecution and an expensive defense should they be confronted and fear for their lives, or the lives of others, and choose to stand their ground and protect themselves, even if they use deadly force.

If I need to defend myself or my family, you can bet I will grab ahold of the closest thing I can reach to use as a weapon for protection; I’ll worry about the legal ramifications afterwards.