First Date Safety Tips

Most of the time, the worst thing that will happen is that you will find out that the gorgeous photo of your date was due to some expert lighting techniques or that you have opposing opinions on jazz music. However, it’s important to consider your safety on a first date and to err on the side of caution when meeting face-to-face.

Here are some tips for staying safe on your first date, whether you are male or female:

Don’t give out your home address – Until you know somebody well, do not tell them exactly where you live. It’s OK to say which village or which area of a town you live in, but never your whole address.

Travel separately – Even if you live close by to each other don’t share a lift on a first date. Arrange to meet at the venue and make sure that you have planned your route home. You don’t want to find that the last train has gone and that every taxi company is fully booked.

Meet in a public place – With a ‘muddy’ dating website, it’s no surprise that a lot of people think that the perfect first date would include a walk in the countryside. However, on your first date it’s a good idea to meet in a busy place such as a café or a pub.

Tell someone where you’re going – Tell a friend where you are going and tell them that you’ll give them a call at a certain time. You can always use the call for post-date analysis.

Take a charged mobile phone – As we’ve mentioned before, it’s very rude to play on your phone during your date, but it’s useful to have one with you. If you’re running late you can phone your date to let them know and it’s also useful for booking a taxi if you end up staying out later than you expected to.

Watch your drink – If your date offers to buy you a drink, go to the bar with them or make sure that the waiter or waitress brings you the drink.

Don’t get drunk – We’re not saying not to drink, but if you do choose to have alcohol on your date don’t get so drunk that you don’t know what’s going on around you as it can leave you vulnerable. Like using your phone on your date, it’s also rude to get drunk and behave badly on your date.

Take a look at our safety advice page for more information.