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Carrying a gun would be a bad idea for me. I've had my purse snatched before, and if I'd had a gun, it would have done me no good and would have provided the snatcher with a gun.
The list misses some important things. It assumes the woman is by herself, and that the confrontation is already in progress.
Better than anything on that list is to not be alone in an isolated place in the dark. Travel with a partner, and it doesn't really matter who. Rapists don't like dealing with more than one person. If I stop at 24 Hour fitness and it's dark when I'm going out to my car, you can be damn sure I'm stopping at the front desk and asking for an escort to my car. If it's 8:30 at night, I'm driving to 7-11 rather than walk there. My car is always, without exception, parked in the garage when I'm at home.
Also, it assumes the primary danger is stranger rape. It isn't, aquaintance rape is more common.
If he hits you, even once, leave. He's the kind of man who believes using force on a woman is acceptable.
Don't travel in the same car on your first few dates; drive yourself and meet in a public place, and leave in separate cars.
Make sure someone knows where you're going and who with.
Better yet, on a first date, make it a group date. Whenever my sister goes on a first date with a new guy, it's always a double date with me and Grace.
Don't put yourself in high risk situations, such as getting drunk at a frat party.
Most of all, if a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, get out quickly.
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