Dating Safety Tips

Unfortunately, the times that we live in now require us to think much more carefully about meeting up with strangers than ever before. Although the following safety tips are primarily aimed at the girls, guys should read this too, so that they can be understanding of their date's concern for safety. It may also help them realise why women may seem very cagey at first.

Keep your details vague.

Keep your personal details to yourself in terms of where you live, your home number and work details. Obviously, don't be so secretive that your date thinks you've got something to hide, but be sensible. Someone may appear to be perfectly trustworthy, but if it doesn't work out and you've given away too many details about yourself, things could become difficult if they won't take no for an answer. Some people can be very persistent.

Always meet in a public place.

Make sure you plan your date where there are a lot of people around. Go to busy places, preferably where you are known and make sure you chat to the waiter or waitress while you are there.

Keep your friends or family informed.

Make sure you give a friend or family member the details of where you are going, in addition to the person's name, phone number and any other details that you think may be relevant. It's a good idea to ask your friend to call you an hour or so into the date to check that things are OK.

Be self sufficient.

This means that you should make your own way to and from the date. Even better, have a friend pick you up - this sets a time limit for the date, and gives you the reassurance that someone you know will be around. Never agree for your date to pick you up from your house.

Trust your instincts.

Listen to your heart and trust your gut reaction as to whether something or someone is a good idea. If you hear alarm bells, don't ignore them. Remember, you are in control of who you choose to spend time with and it's perfectly reasonable for you to politely decline an invitation or tell someone (kindly) that they're not the kind of person you are looking for.

Stay sober.

Don't impair your judgement on this first date. Also, watch your drink closely. If you leave to go to the bathroom, order a new drink when you return.

Beware of sudden change of plans.

This is usually danger sign. For instance, you agree to meet with a man for coffee at a cafe ...he shows up with a friend and asks if you want to go for a drive instead. Um, no thanks.

Go home alone.

Even if your date goes really well, don't accept any lifts, go back to a stranger's house or invite them back to your home, however tempting that might be. There are people who enjoy one-night stands and have their own views on safety, but whatever your views are on casual sex, be sensible and be safe.