Pepper foam likely to replace gas
Pepper foam is likely to replace CS gas spray for use by police officers to subdue violent suspects after tests showed that it was safer and more effective.
The foam is among equipment tested by the force, which is also studying a new type of foldable handcuffs and scene-of-crime tents which would help to preserve evidence.
The year-long trial of pepper foam by some operational units and female officers will end this month when a review will be conducted to see whether it should replace CS gas.
The foam has so far been used by officers on five occasions to subdue violent suspects and was found to be effective.
Support Wing's Superintendent Charles Mitchell said it was likely the use of pepper foam would be recommended.
The CS gas, which the force has used for many years, can give people runny noses, teary eyes, and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat.
While Mr Mitchell said the pepper foam could have similar effects, it would not result in any long-lasting problems like CS gas, such as getting into the lungs.
Mr Mitchell said the effect created by the foam lasted as long as it remained on the skin and could be cleared by washing it off.
The new canister squirts a mixture similar to shaving foam laced with ground capsicum and has a maximum firing range of three metres.
Mr Mitchell said the foam worked more effectively than CS gas on people who were drunk or under the influence of drugs.
It was also less likely to harm innocent bystanders, including officers trying to subdue the suspects.
The force is also conducting trials on a new type of foldable handcuffs.
About 50 officers are using the handcuffs to see if they can be applied to both wrists of a suspect more swiftly than the old design.
A scene-of-crime tent, similar to those used for camping, is also being tested.
Mr Mitchell said the tents could be used in circumstances in which it was necessary to preserve the evidence - such as a body from rain in a murder case.
