pepper balls
Riot control rounds
Pepper balls are projectiles filled with powdered capsaicin—the chemical that makes peppers hot—fired from compressed-air guns for crowd control or self-defense.
On impact, they burst and release an irritant cloud that causes burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat: Police fired pepper balls at the protesters.
Less lethal than bullets but controversial when used at close range.
Violent public disturbance
- protestPublic expression of disapproval
- dispersalSpreading in many directions
- demonstrationPublic display of opinion
- civil unrestPublic disturbance by citizens
barricade · non-lethal · tactical · police · enforcement · perimeter · standoff · confrontation
Combustion in progress
- stingingCausing sharp pain
- tearingForcibly separating material
- coughingForceful air expulsion reflex
- inflammationProtective tissue response
capsaicin · irritant · pain · redness · watery eyes · respiratory distress · choking · wheezing
Device that sends projectiles
- projectileLaunched airborne object
- compressed airGas under high pressure
- cartridgeSealed container for supplies
- canisterSealed cylindrical container
range · accuracy · reload · firing · trajectory · impact · burst · powder
riot
Violent public disturbance
- protestPublic expression of disapproval
- dispersalSpreading in many directions
- demonstrationPublic display of opinion
civil unrest · barricade · non-lethal · tactical · police · enforcement · perimeter · standoff · confrontation · de-escalation
burning
Combustion in progress
inflammation · capsaicin · irritant · pain · redness · watery eyes · respiratory distress · choking · wheezing · temporary blindness
launcher
Device that sends projectiles
- projectileLaunched airborne object
- compressed airGas under high pressure
- cartridgeSealed container for supplies
canister · range · accuracy · reload · firing · trajectory · impact · burst · powder · dispersal
personal protection
Safeguarding oneself from harm
- home defenseProtecting one's residence
- deterrentThing that discourages action
- securityProtection from threat
intruder · threat · civilian · legal · carry · holster · training · safety · emergency · break-in
- crowd controlriot gear, riot shields, rubber bullets, water cannon, tear gas
pepper ballslive ammunition
Projectiles meant to harm
de-escalation · buckshot · live rounds · standing down · tear gas
pepper ballsnegotiation
Discussion seeking mutual accord
de-escalation · dialogue · mediation · diplomacy · conflict resolution
pepper ballsmedical aid
Professional health assistance
first aid · relief supplies · water distribution · eye wash stations · saline solution
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