We all know that dating is a risky business. You never know what you’re going to get, and you have to be prepared for any contingency.
There are so many ways that things can go wrong. You could get catfished by someone who looks nothing like their profile picture, or your date might be an ex-murderer.
What if they’re just trying to pick up your wallet? But don’t worry! We’ve got your back.
This article lists tips and tricks to help you stay safe while dating online or in person. So go ahead and get out there; you’re going to do great!
16 Best Tips for Dating Safely
There’s a popular saying that goes, “The best way to get over someone is to get under someone else.”
It’s easy to understand why people say it; when you’re feeling lonely or like you’re missing out on something, going on a date can seem like a good idea.
But dating isn’t always safe. There are plenty of ways to get into trouble.
Here are some tips for staying safe while dating:
1. Be Careful About How Much Information You Give Out
It can be tempting to tell your date about yourself, your favorite color and movie, what you like to eat for breakfast, and even where you went to high school. But that’s not always the best idea.
You don’t want anyone to be able to find out where you live or work just by asking around town or looking through social media profiles.
So keep personal details on lockdown until you’ve gotten to know them better.
2. Always Use the Buddy System
Always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
For example, when Rihanna faced domestic violence and was beaten up by her boyfriend, her assistant called the cops.
A friend or family member, someone who knows you well enough to check in on you if something happens.
If they don’t hear from you after an agreed-upon time, they should call the cops and report your disappearance.
3. Meet at a Public Place
If a date insists on meeting in an isolated place like a parking lot or dark alleyway, cancel the date immediately and don’t return.
If they’re willing to meet at such a dangerous spot, they could be up to no good.
4. Trust Your Gut
If something feels wrong, trust that feeling. If someone sends you an email with an attachment or link that seems too good to be true, delete it immediately.
And if they ask for money or other financial information, don’t reply. Just block them and move on with your life.
5. Do Not Get Into Their Cars
Don’t accept rides from strangers (and if they’re not strangers, they’re probably not friends). If someone offers to drive you home or wherever else, say no, and ask them to meet you at the destination instead.
6. Keep Your Wits About You
If you’re going to date a stranger, be sure to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. This is especially important if you’re meeting with someone in a public place.
Click here to get a book that can teach you FBI profilers’ tactics.
7. Don’t Drink Too Much
We all know that a little bit of alcohol can make people less inhibited, but it can also make them less alert.
If you’re out at the bar with your date, remember to stick to water or other non-alcoholic beverages if you’re planning on driving home.
8. Always Have Your Cell Phone on Hand
This rule is non-negotiable. If you don’t have your phone, you can’t call for help, and that’s the most crucial thing in any situation.
If your date makes you feel uncomfortable, call 911, and then call your best friend or family member to let them know where you are.
This includes if the person you’re dating tries to get you into their car, won’t let you leave, or tries to force you into any other type of situation where they might harm you.
9. Never Leave Your Drink Unattended
This is a huge rule at bars and clubs since they tend to have more than one bartender working at once.
If someone puts something in your drink while you’re away from it, you won’t even know until it’s too late.
10. Never Ever Send Money
Don’t send money to anyone if you’re dating online. If someone asks for money online, that should be a huge red flag, especially if they claim not to have access to their bank account because they’re abroad or something similar.
11. Check References Before Going on a Date
Before agreeing to go on a date with someone new, check references from other people who have met them before and had positive experiences doing so.
If they won’t provide references or seem suspiciously ashamed of their past relationships, then it can be a good idea not to continue communicating with them further.
12. Always Carry Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is a great way to protect yourself. It’s easy to use, effective and affordable. Make sure you know how to use it before going out on a date.
13. Don’t Send Personal Pictures
Don’t send naked pictures of yourself or pictures that show your face if you don’t want them shared with others.
The person on the other end might not be who they say they are, and those pictures could end up in the wrong hands.
If someone asks for nude photos, tell them no and block their number immediately.
14. Set Limits Early on
If you’re not comfortable being intimate with someone right away, tell them up front and let them know it’s not because they aren’t attractive or interesting enough for you.
If they can’t respect your boundaries and still want to take things further than you’re comfortable with, it’s time for them to go.
15. Always Pick the Place
It’s best if you pick the place where you’ll go on your date. That way, you’ll know exactly where you’re going and who will be there.
If your date offers to pick somewhere for the two of you to go, ask them about it first so that they don’t surprise you with something that isn’t safe or comfortable.
16. Never Lead Someone On
Don’t lead someone on by acting interested when you’re not — even if you think it will benefit them in the long run.
If they want something more serious than what you’re offering, let them down gently and kindly; don’t string them along just so they won’t get hurt by the truth.
It’s better to give up a potential relationship than to keep someone hanging on because they think there’s a chance when there isn’t one.
Conclusion
Dating can be a scary place, especially when you’re new to it. But there are plenty of ways to keep yourself safe while dating and make sure that no one takes advantage of you.
Keep these tips in mind the next time you go on a date, and you’ll be able to have fun, stay safe, and get what you want out of your relationship!
