Keep in mind too that even if you did encounter a creep, they would probably be either on foot or in a car. On a bike, you can move faster than a person on foot and are much more nimble than a car, so you will have an advantage either way in getting out of the situation. Pepper spray, as already mentioned, is never a bad idea (you can get some kind of holster for it, and zip-tie or velcro that around the stack of headset spacers under your handlebars). And, I agree with the person who said you're overall better off bike commuting, despite the odd hours and fewer people around, if your other choice is taking an HOUR to drive 5 miles!! I know what my choice would be...