Ask yourself what could happen to me today? Be reasonable, and then ask what can I do to prevent it, or deal with it.

If it is possible a handgun is a better soloution for self defence than a knife or spray, though each has their strong points. However a firearm is a "gentleman's" weapon but a knife is concidered a "thug's" weapon. Carrying a CONCEALED weapon isn't that hard if you don't insist on too big a weapon. If you are going into a school or area that you don't want to carry lock it in your car (unloaded) and you should be OK.

On pepper spray, if you are going to carry it, don't announce that you have it. If it is needed just use it and the supprise that you had anything will work in your favor. DO NOT THREATEN WITH PEPPER SPRAY OR IT WILL LOSE ONE OF IT'S MAJOR FACTORS, SUPPRISE.

A knife is the most usefull tool you can have and I'm not sure why you don't carry one even a small knife is better than no knife. In an urban environment a small swiss army knife other tools file, screwdriver, etc. that can more than explain it's usefullness.

If anyone asks about the lighter tell them it's your significant other's and no more questions should be asked.

"It's easier to push off a 6 month sentence, than 6 feet of dirt."

Take care and stay safe.