Which common immediate reaction contributes to incapacitation after OC spray exposure?

• A. Blepharospasm.
• B. Numbness in fingers.
• C. Dizziness.
• D. Headache.

Answer: (A)

Blepharospasm—the rapid, involuntary closing of the eyelids—is the main factor that leads to incapacitation after OC spray exposure. OC spray irritates the eyes intensely, triggering reflex tearing and tight eyelid closure. When the eyes can’t stay open, vision is severely impaired or lost, making it difficult to see, aim, or move effectively, which is the quickest way to become incapacitated.

Numbness in the fingers, dizziness, and headache can occur after exposure, but they don’t produce the immediate, reflexive loss of sight that blepharospasm does, so they’re not the primary drivers of sudden incapacitation.