Safety Tips For Dates
May 18th, 2008 by Pam Baldwin
Dating services are a big thing on the Internet nowadays. There are tons of companies, such as FriendFinder, with lots of members, making it easy for just about anybody to find people with the same interests. Especially for busy professionals, online dating is a very convenient service.
Even though online dating is so convenient, and you may think that you have found your perfect person, you still have to be safe. If you meet somebody on FriendFinder, and have only talked by email or instant messenger, you do not know if the person is safe. However, following the guidelines below, you can have a safe, happy date, and perhaps you perfect person will become you only person ?.
First, you should always make the arrangements to meet your date. Don’t let your date pick you up at home or know your home address. This applies to both the first date and subsequent dates if you’re unsure of your interest in the person. You should also only give out your cell phone number, and not your home landline number which can be traced to your address. Don’t worry about anyone taking offense; this is your personal safety at stake and be very firm about this.
Be sure to meet in a public place, such as a concert, or movies, or a local Starbucks, somewhere with lots of people. A good idea is to go on a double date, with one of your friends. It might be a bit awkward, but at least it is safe.
Another important safety tip is to avoid alcohol on your first date. You don’t want your judgement to be impaired or to let your guard down. If you do drink, however, keep your alcohol consumption to a minimum and always keep sight of your glass.
Another good idea is to pay half the bill on your first date. By doing so, you will not feel obligated to go on a second date if you are not interested.
Also, tell a friend where you are going with your date, and when you will be back. Have the friend call you to make sure you arrived home safely. Also, you could end your date by meeting up with friends.
Finally, the most important safety advice is to trust your own judgement. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t be afraid to end the date early if you feel uneasy with the person for any reason. You may have had extensive written communication but often it’s only in person when you can pick up signs that all may not be right. Your own judgement and common sense will best help you stay safe in the online dating scene.
