I'm having an online discussion (which I am trying to keep civil) with a group of people who claim that the police in California have the right to pepper spray anyone who does not obey a police order. How in the world can this be true? I'm not a lawyer - but my gut tells me that there has to be case law to the contrary. Help me out!
posted by dirtmonster on Nov 20, 2011 - 18 answers

My lovely husband has just accidentally set off pepper spray in our one-bedroom apartment. We're now hanging out in the building lobby, and have all the windows open and the fans going. Is there anything else we can do to make it so we can go back in the apartment tonight?
posted by EmilyFlew on Nov 14, 2009 - 9 answers

I have chronic sinus infections for which I am now considering surgery after trying most major medical options, as well as a massive allergen removal program. I read about a product called "Sinus Buster" which uses pepper in the form of a nose-drop to clear sinuses. I bought some, and based on just a few days usage, there is a definite improvement. I'm surprised, since the manufacturer also claims that the product can help you lose weight and has even said that it can cure some forms of cancer (multiple miracle claims=sure red flag.) So, my questions: - Does anyone else have any exeperience with this product? - The stuff burns, which I am getting used to - but is it really a good idea to put something that (at least) feels caustic up my nose? Is there a possibility of long-term damage? -Can I become reliant on it for clearing my congestion, as with "traditional" OTC nose drops? Here's the product URL: www.sinusbuster.com
posted by soulbarn on Aug 15, 2006 - 17 answers

What is the best form of non-violent self-defense, speaking in terms of both resultant injury and price? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Sep 18, 2005 - 25 answers