Dating can be an exciting time of discovery for a couple and can even lead to love. However, in today’s crazy world, it’s important to be cautiously optimistic and follow safe dating rules when getting to know someone.
Safe dating is not synonymous with safe sex. Safe sex protects against pregnancy and disease; safe dating protects your wallet, your identity and sometimes your life.
Incidents and Statistics
Unsafe dating can make the headlines or the nightly news. “Each year there are cases of dating violence, rape and sexual assault on college campuses," according to North Carolina University's website. After an Internet encounter, a gay California man arranged a meeting at another man's home. The "date" stole the man's cell phone and sprayed him with mace. The Stalking Resource Center reports that “3.4 million people over the age of 18 are stalked each year in the United States."
Police Insight
Police departments across the country have seen an ever-increasing rate of date rape, even though victims are sometimes unsure if the situation will be considered rape. It's important for women to understand that the only difference between rape and date-rape is that the perpetrator is in her social circle. Additionally, incidences of unsafe scams operating on social networking, dating and chat websites have prompted police departments to set up sting operations in an effort to prevent unsafe situations.
Financial Safety
In addition to ensuring your physical safety when dating, it's critical to realize that the world is filled with criminals who want to take your money or use your good credit to further their criminal behavior. While dating, do not disclose too much personal information too soon, or let your heart interfere with good judgment. Do not lend money or provide information that could be used for identity fraud, and you'll be dating in a safe situation.
Warning Signs
Safe dating includes watching for warning signs. Short of actually hiring a detective, you should make an effort to know who it is you are dating. If you friends warn you against dating someone, heed their warnings. Pay attention to the personal information your date has provided, and try to determine its veracity. If any red flags unfurl, don't proceed until you are certain you can continue to date the new person safely.
Precautions
Until you know the person you're dating, it's imperative that you take steps to stay safe. Drive yourself to dates rather than being picked up. Meet in public places. Keep your wallet and jewelry secure, just as you would with any stranger. Disclose a minimal amount of personal information, and never provide a home address, phone number or work details until you're sure you know the person. Keep friends or family apprised of your date times and locations, and be prepared by setting up an emergency plan.
Solution
Safe dating means listening to your instincts and using good judgment. Never feel pressured to become intimate or provide too much personal information too soon, and never ignore putting safety first. To date safely, forget the old adage, “I’ll trust you until you give me a reason not to.” No one deserves your trust until they earn it. Adopt the safe dating principle of staying cautious until your date proves trustworthy.
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