Safe Dating Advice

Take Your Time and Get to Know Your Match:
Before meeting someone for the first time in person, take your time to get to know them better through the dating app. Don’t feel pressured to agree to meet or chat outside the app until you feel comfortable and confident about the person. It’s always a good idea to ask questions and screen for any potential red flags or dealbreakers. Don’t hesitate to ask about their interests, values, and expectations to ensure you’re on the same page. A phone or video call can also be a valuable tool to help you get a better sense of the person before meeting. This can help you build trust and confidence, and may even be a fun way to establish a connection. Remember, there’s no need to rush into anything. Take your time to build a genuine connection and enjoy the dating process. Your safety and well-being should always be your top priority.

Meet in Public Places Only:
Your safety is our top priority, and we strongly recommend that you meet your date for the first few times in a public place, such as a restaurant, café, or park where there are other people around. Avoid meeting at private locations like your home, your date’s home, or any other secluded places. If your date pressures you to go to a private location or insists on meeting somewhere secluded, it’s a warning sign. In such cases, it’s best to end the date immediately and trust your instincts. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious and prioritize your safety over anything else.

Let Someone Know Your Plans:
Prioritizing your safety while dating means taking certain precautions, including letting someone you trust know about your plans. Make sure to inform a close friend or family member about the details of your date, such as where you’re going and when you plan to be back. It’s also essential to have your cell phone with you and fully charged throughout the date. In the event of an emergency or if you feel unsafe, you’ll be able to call for help or alert someone close to you. Remember, taking these steps can help ensure your well-being and give you peace of mind while dating.

Be in Control of Your Transportation:
We believe in giving you control over your dating experience, including how you arrive and depart from your date. We recommend having a backup plan in place, such as a ride-share app or a trusted friend, so that you can leave at any time if you need to. If you’re driving yourself, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and have an alternative mode of transportation available. This way, you won’t have to rely on your date for a ride or feel pressured to stay longer than you’re comfortable with. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities, so don’t hesitate to take the necessary precautions to ensure that you feel secure throughout your dating journey.

Know Your Limits:
It’s important to be aware of how drugs or alcohol may affect you personally. They can impair your judgment and alertness, making it difficult to recognize potential danger or make sound decisions. If your date pressures you to consume drugs or drink more than you’re comfortable with, it’s essential to hold your ground and prioritize your safety and well-being. Remember, you have the right to say no and set your boundaries. Don’t hesitate to end the date if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and prioritize your personal safety over a potential connection.

Keep an Eye on Your Drink and Personal Belongings:
Staying aware of your surroundings is key to staying safe while on a date. One important tip is to always keep an eye on your drink and know where it came from. To minimize the risk of drink tampering, only accept drinks that have been poured or served directly from the bartender or server. It’s worth noting that many substances used to facilitate sexual assault are odorless, colorless, and tasteless. In addition to safeguarding your drinks, it’s essential to keep your personal belongings close at all times. Your phone, purse, wallet, and anything containing personal information should be kept on your person. This way, you can stay in control of your belongings and avoid potential theft or privacy breaches. Remember, being cautious doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. It’s possible to have a great time while also being mindful of your surroundings and taking steps to protect yourself.

Trust Your Instincts and End the Date Early If Needed:
We understand that sometimes a date may not go as planned, and you may feel uncomfortable or unsafe. In such cases, it’s perfectly acceptable and even recommended to end the date early. Your safety is our top priority. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, don’t ignore it. You can discreetly ask the bartender, server, or staff for assistance. They are trained to handle such situations and can provide you with the necessary help and support. Remember, it’s not worth risking your safety to avoid hurting your date’s feelings. You have the right to prioritize your well-being above all else.

As you navigate through the exciting world of online dating, it’s important to exercise extra caution, especially when connecting with new people in certain countries. Unfortunately, some law enforcement agencies have been known to use dating apps as tools for potential entrapment, which can put your safety at risk.

In addition, some countries have recently introduced laws that criminalize communication between individuals on same-sex dating applications or websites. These laws may even aggravate penalties if that communication leads to sexual encounters, which could have serious consequences for your personal safety and well-being.

To stay informed and protect yourself, we recommend visiting ILGA World to see the latest sexual orientation laws by country. If you’re able, consider donating to support their research and advocacy efforts.

Remember, your safety is our top priority, and we encourage you to exercise caution and use common sense when connecting with new people online. Be sure to trust your instincts, stay aware of your surroundings, and never compromise your personal safety for the sake of a potential match.