Staying Safe on A First Date: Dating Safety

Dating today is not nearly as stress-free as dating was twenty years ago. While in the past women often only worried about what they would wear, if they would pay for dinner or if they should kiss on their first date, today’s single women worry about much more. Dating safety is even more important to focus on than ever before, as crimes like date rape are growing in number. While most single women crave romance, it’s important for singles to be careful about who they date, the information they give to their date and other private information they choose to share with someone they’ve just met. With online dating services like the Match.com site and eHarmony bringing a new sense of privacy and technology to the dating process via the Internet, it’s vital for singles to not only rely on what someone says in their personals profile and use their common sense for ultimate dating safety.

Security Items that Can be Discreeting Kept In Your Purse

While it may seem ridiculous to you, stashing a can of pepper spray (or even a pepper spray disguised as a discreet lipstick) or other security item in your purse before the date might be a great idea. You never know what type of person you’ll be meeting and being prepared can make a difference if things go sour.

Meeting Your Date in a Safe, Public Location

It’s a great idea for you not to disclose where you live to a date, especially until you get to know him better. While your father would likely die knowing a date didn’t pick you up at your house, it’s safer for you to maintain your privacy and meet in public. So, for the first few dates (at least) be sure to plan public meetings and be sure your date doesn’t follow you home afterward.

Overly Affectionate Dates: What to Do If Your Date is Moving Too Fast

If you happen to be on a date with an affectionate man who is moving way too quickly for you, be sure to take note. If your date’s advances make you feel uncomfortable, you should firmly tell your date their behavior is bothersome. If you feel in danger, be sure to call the authorities or a friend to meet you immediately at the place of your date and refuse to go on another date with this person in the future. It’s always a good idea to pre-arrange for a friend to call during the date to ensure you’re safe. Coming up with a keyword phrase is a good way for you to let your friend know you’re ok or not ok while chatting on the phone. While it may seem rude to use your phone during the date, it’s a good idea for a first date for you to have someone check in with you. Also, remember your gut instincts are usually right about people, so follow them!

While these dating security tips might seem a little overboard, the truth is there are many men out there willing to take advantage of single women. This is especially true if they know the female hasn’t been out into the dating world for long. So, keep yourself safe and protected by being prepared in advance and while on your date!