First Date Safety Tips for Online Dating

Meeting someone in person for the first time is exciting, but safety should always come first. Here are essential tips for a secure first date.

Meet in Public

Always choose a public place for your first meeting - a coffee shop, restaurant, or busy park. Save the quiet, romantic spots for later.

Tell Someone Your Plans

Share your date details with a trusted friend: where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you expect to be done. Consider sharing your location.

Arrange Your Own Transportation

Drive yourself or use ride-share so you can leave whenever you want. Never rely on your date for transportation on a first meeting.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. Don't worry about being polite - your safety matters more than avoiding an awkward moment.

Keep Initial Details Private

Don't share your home address, workplace, or other sensitive information until you've built trust over multiple meetings.