Florida OC Pepper Spray Legal Carry Question...

[jfrey123]

Hey all, this question is directed at our Florida citizens...

My girlfriend Kim is taking a trip down to see one of her friends from college this week. She'll be in the Ft. Lauderdale area. It looks like there will be some times where she will be left alone, since this friend will have to work a couple of the days Kim will be there. On these periods of time alone, Kim's decided she wants to go around on foot to check out some of the sights.

I'm not opposed to this, but my little Kim is 4'9" and 100lbs of asian fury. I'm always paranoid about her getting attacked (especially for the pedofile factor since she gets confused for 12 year olds). I haven't found anything against pepper spray in the Florida State Laws, but I wanted to ask the awesome members of our forum if they know pepper spray to be legal or illegal.

The plan is to fly down with the pepper spray in checked baggage, then drop it in her purse for the duration of her trip. Is she legal to carry pepper spray in the state of FL?

 

[skeeter1]

Not legal advice, but might help

This might be of help to you, Re: pepper spray in FL.

"Is it legal for me to carry pepper spray?

In most cases, yes. The kind that you buy off the counter from your local drug store is legal. The key chain type is a dispenser that is convenient and practical. You should take a course in the effective administration of O.C. prior to carrying it. Usually the O.C. which contains dye which is designed for civilian carry. Check the bottle and make sure that it does not warn: For Law Enforcement Use Only. If it does, do not carry the product. Florida Law does allow you to openly carry, for self defense purposes a chemical control agent such as pepper spray. There are limitations however, which can be located in Florida State Statutes Chapter 790. You should read and understand the restrictions and responsibilities prior to carrying any weapon."

The last couple of times I've flown, (post-9/11) my checked baggage has been searched, and carrying OC might get her into hot water. Better off to purchase it when she gets there.

 

[NukemJim]

The last couple of times I've flown, (post-9/11) my checked baggage has been searched, and carrying OC might get her into hot water.

Uhm.. you might possibly want to check your facts first

From http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#9

Mace/Pepper Spray - One 118 ml or 4 Fl. oz. container of mace or pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. For more information visit www.faa.gov., click on Passengers, then Preparing to Fly.

I always fly with pepper spray in my checked baggage with the exception of international flights. Never had a problem or question from TSA.

I prefer to carry the best pepper spray I can get I do not want to have to get the weak, overpriced stuff usually sold in brick and mortar stores.

NukemJim