Now you can meet and choose dates using multitude of options such as instant messenger, online dating forums, dating websites, and of course email. Though we all can’t be as lucky as Meg Ryan was, in You’ve Got Mail, it really shouldn’t stop us from dreaming that we might.
There is a lot of thrill, excitement, and nervousness when you have to meet that expected special someone, for the first time, face to face. Nevertheless, you need to remember to be alert when going out to meet a stranger who you know only through the Internet. Here are 10 tips on being safe on your first date:
1. Arrange to meet your date some place other than home Since you shall be meeting the person for the first time, do not allow him to pick you up from your home.
2. Always insist on meeting in public places. Meet in a public place which is usually crowded. Places like restaurants, malls and parks make for good first date venues.
3. Offer to go dutch, pick up half of the tab. In order to avoid feeling obligated to your date, offer to pay half of the bill and earn some peace of mind!
4. Set the limit for your alcohol consumption. Remember that excess of alcohol will affect your judgment making ability. So limit your alcohol consumption to one or two glasses of wine or mock tails. Avoiding alcohol completely, on your first date, is a good idea.
5. Use your own vehicle If you travel using your own mode of transportation, then use the vehicle to your first date venue and check that your fuel gauge is not on empty!
6. Don’t assume the man is safe; always be on vigil Don’t assume that the man is safe and therefore never let your guard down. Even if you hit off with the man well, remember to remain alert and on the vigil.
7. Follow your intuition Make it a point to listen to your intuition. If you feel uncomfortable on meeting the man in the beginning of the date, then leave immediately.
8. Inform at least one person about your plans Always share your plan for the first date with someone who is close to you; maybe your friend or family member.
9. If your first date insists on a contact number give him your mobile number Giving out your mobile number is safer than giving out your home phone number.
10. Lastly, but very importantly, always choose reputable singles or dating websites. One website which you can trust is www.TheSinglesNetwork.com. It’s the largest local dating network in the world. The website has presence in not just US but other countries such as UK, Canada, Australia, Asia, and many others. Become a member of this online dating website, today!
In the initial stages of online dating, you are in the process of getting to know a person, who was a virtual stranger. By remembering these pointers, you shall be able to create a safe environment for yourself on your first date and thus help yourself.