I've seen a lot of people talk about getting harassed while publicly gearing and the advice they have given on how to handle it is not safe.
First and foremost, if someone is verbally harassing you, do not engage. I know its tempting to say something back but just keep on walking, don't look, don't talk.
If that doesn't work and they start following you. Go somewhere public with lots of people, a police/fire station, a store, anywhere. Do NOT go home if you are being followed. Don't lead them to where you live.
Dial 911 (or whatever your emergency line is) if you think you are in immediate danger.
If you don't think you need to call emergency services but you still need/want help, call a friend to come and pick you up.
This one is for minors (cus ya shouldn't be going up to random adults): If you need help and its unsafe to call someone, find a family or an adult with a child and tell the adult that you are in danger and need help.
Don't go alone, take a friend or a family member with you. If you're going out after dark tell a trusted adult where you are going and when you are coming back.
Do not engage physically unless you absolutely have to, laws on self defense are super strict on what actually counts. Plus its just not a good idea to fight. Fighting should only be the last resort if nothing else is available.
And also, please for the love of god do NOT pull out a knife or a weapon, that will just escalate the situation and make things worse.
And even before you go out, consider this: Is it safe for me to go out? Do I live in a safe enough area to do this?
Always carry your phone or a way of contacting help and make sure it has enough battery life.