British Columbia·Video

Police warn against UBC students carrying bear spray

Some retailers who sell various forms of pepper spray, including bear spray, say they have seen a spike in sales following a rash of sexual assaults on UBC's Vancouver campus. But police are advising students not to carry bear spray because would-be attackers could turn the weapon on their victims.

Pepper spray may not be the answer

11 years ago
Duration 2:11
Police warn women that their weapons can be used against them

Some Vancouver-area retailers that sell various forms of pepper spray — including bear spray — say they have seen a spike in sales following a rash of sexual assaults on UBC's campus.

But police are advising students not to carry bear spray because would-be attackers could turn the weapon on their victims.

The CBC's Peg Fong spoke with police and self defense experts about the best way to protect yourself without carrying a weapon.

Corrections

  • A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that bear spray is a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code of Canada.
    Nov 12, 2013 6:02 AM PT