HotShot™ FAQs:
revised 10.17.08

Q: What irritant is in the RED powder cartridge that makes it so hot?

Answer: The active irritant is called PAVA (aka nonivamide, capsaicin II). It is one of the two hottest capsaicinoids found in nature. Capsaicinoids are what make chili peppers, spicey foods and pepper sprays hot. The RED powder in your patent pending PepperBall® HotShot™ personal defense product contains a proprietary mixture of this PAVA pepper powder and other inert powders. PAVA pepper powder will irritate the eyes, nose, lungs and skin and may cause severe coughing and involuntary closure of the eyes.

Q: What should I do if I become irritated by the PAVA pepper cloud or exposed to the PAVA powder?

Answer: Remain calm and get to a safe place. If your lungs are irritated get to fresh air and wait until the effects wear off, usually in several minutes. If breathing becomes difficult, seek medical attention. If your eyes are irritated or involuntarily closed, hold them open and gently flush with water for several minutes. All effects are
temporary and will wear off in about 20 minutes.

Q: Can I CARRY my HotShot™ Personal Defense System on an airplane?

Answer: No. Current FAA regulations do not allow it.

Q: Can I CHECK my HotShot™ Personal Defense System on an airplane?

Answer: No. Current FAA regulations do not allow it.

Q: How do I clean up the inert training and PAVA pepper powder?

Answer:

• The powder in the inert BLUE training cartridge is similar to “baby powder” and can be easily cleaned up by sweeping, vacuuming or other methods.
  
• The powder in RED PAVA pepper cartridges may be cleaned up with several methods including vacuuming or wiping.
• Wearing protective goggles and a NIOSH approved dust mask will make you more comfortable while cleaning up and protect from incapacitating effects of capsaicin exposure.
• Use a damp paper towel to wipe down surfaces and prevent powder from becoming airborne.
• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean upholstery. Remove bag and wipe down vacuum to remove any residue.
• Evacuate area, clean up powder, place all paper towels, cleaning rags, vacuum bags, etc. in a plastic bag and deposit in your outside trash container.
• Care should be taken to avoid causing pepper powder to become airborne.
• Ventilate area and wash exposed surfaces with soap and water after powder cleanup is complete.
• Waste Disposal Measures: The PAVA pepper powder is not considered a hazardous waste as referenced in 40 CFR 261.24 or 261.3.