Ever get creeped out walking through an empty parking structure after a late night at work? Live in an area that has crime problems? For many, mace is a personal security option that provides a bit of comfort in such circumstances.

Mace is a spray that can be used to repel someone that is attempting to assault you. The term Mace is actually a bit of a misnomer. The term used to refer to a chemical that was extremely irritating and often had major side effects. These days, it is more of a brand name for a device that shoots pepper spray at the intended target.

Pepper spray is a lachrymatory substance. This means that it is a substance that attacks the eyes of an individual, specifically the corneal nerves. The typical impact is to immediately cause intense pain, muscle contractions and tears. Some people will even experience temporary blindness. The spray will also irritate the mouth, nose and lungs of the assailant. All of the effects are short term and have no lasting consequences unless you are repeatedly sprayed, which raises a host of other issues!

What is it like to be hit with this spray? The eyes immediately slam shut. It will feel like you've dumped the hottest sauce directly into your eyes. Tears will flow like a river. You'll start sneezing and coughing violently. The end result is anyone who gets a face full of pepper spray is immediately incapacitated. If you are being attacked, this is exactly what you want for obvious reasons.

So, where does Mace stand as a personal security device? It depends on the risk levels you face in your life. If you live or work in an area where crime is a problem, then mace is something that you should strongly considered buying. It is a non-lethal, but will stop a criminal in their tracks. When you are facing an assault, that is exactly what you want to happen.

Thomas Ajava writes about mace facts and other security topics for SecuritySystemStop.com.