First and foremost. Anyone that tells you to stay away from a dangerous situation obviously doesn't know the frist thing about violent criminals.
Do those places exist? sure...... but here's the dirty little secret...... Fences, invisible bounradies, train tracks and landmarks are not recognized by violent people as places they can't cross. They can be anywhere, at any time, wearing any hat. Don't ever let anyone tell you that it's YOUR fault that something bad happened because you were in the wrong place. The general public shouldn't be made to be afraid to go outside. If that happens, the criminal element has won.
Here are the 3 things you ABSOLUTELY NEED to bring with you everywhere you go that you might feel is questionable...... (even if you don't, its a good idea. Bad guys don't recognize boundaries)
1. A friend. Preferably Male. (no offense) This is a minimum. The phrase "safety in numbers" isn't just a catchy jingle..... it actually works.
2. A phone
3. SITUATIONAL AWARENESS. Be aware of the things that are happening around you. Pay attention to the people, what they are doing, and what the are saying. Make sure you know the area well. Stay in well lit, well traveled paths if possible, and don't accidentally walk down a dead end alley.
Here is what you may consider taking along
1. A gun. It's been mentioned before. Most major cities have programs for training women in the use of a firearm, especially ones who have had bad encounters or close calls. I know that we do here in Minneapolis.
2. Less than lethal items. Pepper spray is good, but a can of wasp spray is better.

A tazer is good, but only if you know how to use it. I don't recommend them for women because most civilian models require you to get up close nad personal, and your goal is to get away, not give the bastard a hug.
3. A web enabled cell phone with GPS positioning, and a friend that can access your location via the intrawebs. In the event of a SHTF situation, it's nice to know that people can find you.
4. If you feel uncomfortable with a weapon of any kind, get an aresol air horn. If something happens, blow it non-stop, scream like hell and run like the wind. Bad guys generally don't like it when attention is called to them.
Please, find a community education class on self defense. Self defense isn't always about offense........... that's why they call it defense. If you learn to spot these situations, many times they can be avoided by simply walking away.
The problem is that sometimes they can't.
It sickens me that people, even in this day and age blame the victim for assaults. "You were in the wrong place. You had no business there." Fact is, we shouldn't let the criminals have territory. If we do, it will only grow in size.
"Just let them take what they want, then they will leave" Yes. After they have taken your gear, raped you and killed you, they will leave. Sounds like good advice.
Evil deserves no consession. Period.
If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go get my flame suit on now.