Pepper spray is an effective, non-lethal weapon of defence. To be armed with it could mean the difference between temporarily incapacitating an attacker and escaping, or being the helpless victim of a brutal, perhaps deadly assault.

At the very least, tucked in a pocket or in a nightstand drawer, it would give law-abiding citizens — especially women — peace of mind knowing they have a means of protection within reach.

However, using it could also land them up to 10 years on jail. The Criminal Code lists pepper spray as a prohibited weapon.
The argument that criminals will get their mitts on it is weak. They regularly launch attacks with easily obtained bear spray to complement other weapons of choice like knives, guns, and fists. They also constantly prowl for (preferably unarmed) victims.