Dating Tips

Safe Dating

Online Dating
* Take things slowly to start with, take one step at a time and build up trust. Begin by exchanging emails, swapping recent photos and chatting via instant messenger. Listen to your intuition and stop if you feel uncomfortable.

* At first, be sure not to reveal your full name, where you live, e-mail address or other contact information at this early stage.

* Request a photo from your potential date. It's a good way to check if the person you are talking to has described themselves accurately. If someone keeps putting off sending a photo, this should be a warning signal.

* Only give out your phone number when you feel comfortable, after you've exchanged emails and possibly chatted via instant messenger. Chatting by phone will give you both a chance to get to know each other better and is a good way to assess your potential date's personality and social skills. Use a mobile phone at first in preference to your home number if possible.


The First Date
* Whilst you may have got to know the person you are going to meet quite well by e-mail or on the telephone, you should still be cautious.

* Always tell your friends or relatives where you are going and what time you intend you return.

* Ideally have a mobile phone available.

* Always meet in a public place - a bar, restaurant, coffee shop, cinema, disco etc.

* You may even think about double dating with a friend or going out in a group - it could be more fun and it takes the pressure off you.

* Avoid being reliant on your date for transport home.

* Above all, use common sense and be cautious.

* Apart from that, have a great time!


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