Dating Safety Tips

Remember… "THINK FIRST"

We want your experience here to be a positive one where you can build a lifetime of friendships, and who knows, maybe find the true love of your life. But whether you decide to correspond with members within the site, or meet member's offline, please use this advice… "THINK FIRST"!, and remember that common sense is your best dating safety tool.

Protect Your Anonymity

Never ever include your last name, real email address, home or business address's or phone numbers, or any other identifying information in your profile or initial emails. Discontinue any communication with anyone who pressures you for this information or attempts in any way to trick you into revealing it. Make sure you take all the time you need to become comfortable with someone online. Use your "gut" feelings, ask questions, and move slowly and cautiously. Above all else, make sure you are satisfied with the answers and that you feel comfortable.

You do not have to meet with anyone

The main benefit of getting to know someone online is that you can slowly get to know a person before you make the step to pursuing the relationship in the real world. You are never obligated to meet anyone, regardless of your level of online intimacy. If ever you are pressured to meet with someone and you don't feel comfortable, use your "gut" and don't go. Remember… THINK FIRST!

Are they Truthful?

Trust in your "gut feelings", it will seldom fail you. Watch for passive language, frequent use of certain words (would, could, should and might) and statements that are written as questions. If you think that someone is lying to you, assume that they are, discontinue your correspondence, and find someone who you feel you can trust.

Your first date

In today's day and age it would not be wise to jump boldly into meeting with someone that you've only communicated with through emails. Before you agree to a "face to face" meeting, try the telephone. Again your "gut" will probably give you all the signals you need. Always use caution. If after the phone call you feel comfortable meeting this person, remember… "THINK FIRST", and proceed very carefully. Always make sure that a friend or family member knows about your date, give them a quick call shortly after you meet the person to tell them how it's going, and arrange to check in with them when you arrive home. If at all possible, maybe meet in a group environment for your first date.

Always Select the Safest Possible Environment for Your First Date

We would suggest that you meet in a public place at a time when many people are present. Pick out a spot that is familiar to you when many people are around. Never meet at one of your homes. Avoid hikes, long bike rides, or drives in remote areas for the first few dates. If during your date you decide to move to another location, take your own car. Make sure you end the date while there are still other people present.

Take it Slow on the First Date

Remember…"THINK FIRST" For your first date make it light, a coffee and bagel, a sporting event where lots of people are around, a day shopping at the mall, etc… Meet for one activity and keep it at an hour or two. Use this time as an opportunity to learn a bit more about this new person. Have fun and keep things light, but pay attention. When the timing is appropriate, thank your date for getting together and say good-bye. If you would like to get together again say so, if not, express so honestly, It's OK to decline an additional date.

Watch For Unhealthy Signals

Remember… "THINK FIRST" You should always be aware that unhealthy or dangerous people often hide behind flawless behavior. You can never predict your date's behavior, but there are some warning signs. Pay attention to any displays of anger, frustration or attempts at pressuring or controlling you to do something your not comfortable with. Acting in a passive-aggressive manner, making demeaning or disrespectful comments or any physically inappropriate behavior are all red flags. Remember…"THINK FIRST" Never do anything you don't feel absolutely positive about. If you are in any way afraid of your date, Excuse yourself long enough to call a friend for advice, ask someone else on the scene for help, or leave. Don't be afraid in the least to call the police.