4 Tips To Help You Date Safely

Dating Safely: How to Have Fun While Staying Smart

Dating is fun and exciting, you get to meet new people and try to work out if you are compatible or not.  While most people that you come across will be genuinely cool, it’s a good idea to still keep your guard up to some extent for safety reasons.   After all, you deserve amazing connections without any unnecessary risks.

No matter how you choose to meet people, here are some great tips to keep you safe while you begin your dating journey.

 

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5 Tips To Help You Date Safely

 

1. Online Dating: Play Detective (But Keep It Fun)

Before you meet up, there’s a few things that you should do to make sure that the date goes well in terms of safety.

• Check their social media profiles.  Social media can tell you a lot about a person without them even having to say a word.

While social media can be a great tool to use to get an insight into someone, it still can’t tell you everything that you need to know.  Some people lie on their social media, and some people don’t quite represent themselves accurately, so just be mindful of that.

• Check their profile picture.  If they seem a little too perfect or polished, try to dig a little deeper.  Have conversations online about who they really are.  A person can only hide their true self for so long.

 

• Video chat. It’s a good idea to hop on a quick video call with a person before you meet up in person.  Video will give you better insight into who the person really is, and it will also give you a chance to see what the vibe is really like between you.

Anyone who is uncomfortable with jumping on a quick video chat usually has something to hide, and a red flag should be staring you in the face at this point.

 

2. First Date Rules: Keep It Chill (But Secure)

First dates should be fun, not stressful. Here’s how to keep things safe without killing the mood.

When you decide to go on a first date with someone, you should choose public places to meet, as they are going to be the safest areas.  Places like coffee shops, bars, or busy parks are great places to have a first date, but also to stay safe as well.

• Tell a Friend.  Send a quick text saying something like: “Going out with [Name], meeting at [Location] at [Time]. I’ll check in by [Time].” Better still, share their profile or a screenshot and send it to your friend.

 

• Drive yourself.  It’s a good idea not to rely on your date to pick you up or bring you back home on a first date. Having your own ride means you can leave whenever you want and ensure that you get home safely.

 

• Keep an eye on your drink. Without being paranoid, it’s smart to see your drink being made in front of you. Never leave it unattended and if anything feels off, feel free to excuse yourself and leave.  

 

3. Listen To Your Gut (Seriously, It’s Always Right)

Ever had that “Hmm, something feels off” feeling? That’s your intuition, and it’s way smarter than we often give it credit for.

• If you find that your date is too pushy about anything, whether it’s about drinking, going back to their place, or sharing personal information, saying “No thanks” is a complete sentence. You don’t have to over-explain or justify your reasons.

 

• Too Much Too Fast. Love-bombing can be a red flag. It consists of excessive compliments and too much attention. Real connections take time to build.

 

• You Don’t Owe Them Anything. If you change your mind in the middle of a date or you just aren’t feeling the vibe, you can leave. No explanation is needed.

It’s okay to excuse yourself from a date if you are not enjoying the time or if you feel uncomfortable in any way.

 

 

4. Keep Things Safe As You Get Closer

If things are going well and you’re seeing each other more, that’s a great sign, but still don’t let your guard down completely. Keeping some precautions alive won’t hurt. 

Don’t be in a rush to give the person all your personal details.  They don’t need to know your address, where you work, or your daily routines just yet.  Wait until you feel entirely comfortable and feel safe before sharing such details.

It’s a good idea to also meet this persons friends.  Knowing someone’s friendship circle reveals a lot about the person and who they really are, away from trying to impress you.

 

Final Thoughts On How To Date Safely

Dating should be enjoyable, you should have fun, but also stay smart at the same time!

Most people are decent human beings, the goal isn’t to be paranoid, but just be aware of potential dangers.

Remember:

• Don’t Ignore Red Flags – Small lies, inconsistent stories, or disrespect? Not worth it!

• Trust Takes Time – The right person won’t rush you.

• You’re in Control

By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a great dating experience and genuinely make space to meet your special person.

 

Related posts:

10 Dating mistakes you might be making

10 Signs it might be time to break up

Why you didn’t get a second date and how to change that