Why is it important to consider the proximity of subjects to a weapon before using defensive spray?

The importance of considering the proximity of subjects to a weapon before using defensive spray primarily relates to the effectiveness of the spray. The closer the subject is, the more concentrated and directed the spray can be, thus increasing its potential to disable the aggressive behavior of the subject effectively. When subjects are within close range, the spray can impact the intended area more significantly, ensuring better coverage and reducing the risk of missing the target.

In situations where the subjects are further away, the spray may dissipate or lose effectiveness before it reaches them, making it less useful as a defensive tool. Therefore, understanding the distance is crucial for assessing whether the use of defensive spray will serve the intended purpose adequately.

Considering the proximity also ties into the overall strategy and safety of the situation, where improper assessments could lead to undesirable outcomes, such as misapplication or injury to bystanders. Hence, the effectiveness of defensive spray is heavily dependent on the distance from the subject.