Carry weapons with you at all times.
You never know when you are going to need one.
Pepper spray, baton, knife and a gun if you are licensed to, which I am not.
Do not make yourself look like a weak and inviting target. Not to pit bulls or any other similar aggressive feral creature.
If you feel threatened, take action.
That is all.
A can of WD40 with the red straw and a lighter works wonders. LOL