11 Tips for Valentine's Day Safety

We’re not saying it's okay for you to date online … we just feel like if you’re doing it anyway, we should give you some tips on doing it safely.

Yes, there’s a thrill that comes with meeting someone face to face for the first time. But you still have to always be on your guard when going out with someone you barely know.

Arrange to meet your date

Never allow your date to pick you up from your crib. In fact, you shouldn’t share your home address period!

Meet in a public place

For a first meeting, always meet in a public place where other people are close by. You may always want to consider going out with a group of people.

Go Dutch

Pay half your bill so neither you nor your date feels like you’re obligated to “return” the favor.

Don’t drink

Alcohol affects your judgment and lessens your inhibitions. If you’re going to drink, keep your drink in sight at all times and don’t get so drunk that you don’t know what you’re doing. We suggest you don’t drink at all.

Use your own car

Provide your own transportation to your public meeting place and make sure you have more than enough for gas.

Don’t assume your date is safe

Don’t let your guard down. Tell a friend where you'll be and when you'll be back. And never assume a guy/gal is safe just because he/she claims to be religious or a gentleman.

Don’t let him/her know where you live

If you want to see him/her again, arrange a second date and take it from there. One date doesn’t guarantee he/she's not a creep.

Avoid secluded areas

Stay in a public place where people are around. Avoid secluded areas like parks.

Listen to your gut

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Leave immediately!

Give your date your cell phone number

It’s safer to give out your cell number than your home number. Why? Because someone can easily find out your home address online by entering your home number! This can usually be done in less than 20 seconds.