Advice for Meeting Offline

The first meeting with any new love interest can be exciting, and most first meetings are perfectly safe. But it's always wise to take basic precautions. Always trust your instincts, and be sure to keep the following guidelines in mind:

DO meet

in public, ALWAYS arrange to rendezvous in a populated, public place. NEVER meet in a private home (or in a hotel room) or a remote location.

DO tell

a friend Tell at least one friend or family member you are meeting where you are going and when you expect to return. Let your date know the meeting is not a secret. Tip: Contact your friend before and after the date or ask your friend to contact you at a predetermined time.

DO stay

sober, refrain from drinking excessively, as it could impair your ability to make good decisions and may put you at risk. Tip: Stick to non-alcoholic drinks when meeting someone for the first time.

DO set up

the next date if you are ready and feel comfortable, And DO remember to follow all of these tips on subsequent meetings until you feel confident with your new friend. If the other person is sincerely interested in you, they will want you to feel safe.

DON'T leave

home without your mobile phone If you have a mobile phone, take it with you on dates. Most cell phones can be used to call 911. Tip: Make sure 911 services are available in your area. If not, know your emergency number.

DON'T ask

the other person to pick you up. Get yourself to and from the date, even if you have to have a friend drive you or take a taxi.

DON'T leave

personal belongings (purses, wallets) or drinks unattended Don't risk having your personal information stolen. The same goes for your drink, don't risk having it tampered with. Tip: If you must leave your drink unattended to go to the restroom, order another when you return.

DON'T succumb

to the temptation to take first dates to your home (or to go to his/her home) Stay in a public place, even if you are pressured. If you feel pressured, end the meeting and leave at once. Tip: If you are followed to where you parked your car, stop and hail a taxi or go into another public place to use the telephone and phone a friend. Come back later with your friend to get your car.