Dating Safety Briefing
Before you take off into the world of dating, here are a few safety tips for spending time with someone new.
Switch on your intuition.
Trust your instincts and gut feelings. Check in with yourself that the date is going the way you want it to. Be aware, stay alert and know your surroundings.
Meeting up.
Meet and stay in public until you get to know your date.
Getting there.
Drive yourself, UBER or take public transport. It’s too early for carpooling, your date would find out where you live and have control over where the two of you go.
Drinking and Eating.
Stay sober. Having a clear head keeps you in control of what is going on. Watch when your drinks are being poured to avoid any unknown substances and don’t leave your drink unattended.
Chit chat.
Don’t share too many personal details. In the early days of dating, sadly, they could be used to hack your privacy.
Your itinerary.
It’s always a good idea to share your plans with a trusted friend or family member.
Let them know the three W’s.
Who - you’re going out with
Where - you’re going
When - you’re expected to be home
Bonus Points.
Your trusted person needs to be contactable during the date. Let them know if the plans change. Have a secret word you both know and use to legitimise text messages from you. “[Secret word]. I’ve decided to go to their house now. The address is…”
In case of emergency.
If you or someone you know is in danger, call 111 immediately and speak to the Police.