Be rational and don’t scare yourself so that you never leave the house, but make certain you always take safety precautions when going on a date. Always keep your cell phone with you. It seems like a given, but you never know when you’re going to need to get help if you’re in a dangerous situation. Also, be sure to tell a friend that you are going out on a first date and let him or her know where you’ll be going and when you expect to be back. If something awful did happen, at least you know that someone was expecting you back and can contact the police if you’re missing.
If you’re out on a first date, don’t discuss any personal information about your home address or workplace etc. You want to keep those things on a need to know basis and a first date does not qualify. Remember, you are not sure yet if this guy really is who he says he is. If you took a cab or walked to the meeting place, make sure you have some extra cash on hand in case the date sours and you need to leave in a hurry; having cash on hand makes utilizing a cab much easier.
When you decide to go on a first date, be vocal and ask to meet him in a public place. That’s the safest bet when meeting someone for the first time; of course this only applies to the Internet daters and blind daters. However, if you meet someone in a bar or other place and he asks you out on a first date, you should also suggest a public place. It’s never wrong to put safety first. Pay attention to your surroundings. If he asks to take a walk after dinner, keep to public places and don’t let him walk you home, at least not until you know him better. If he turns out to be a stalker and knows where you live, that will not be a good situation for you.
Be careful not to drink too much alcohol on the first or initial few dates. You want to remain clear-headed so that your judgment is not compromised. Keep an eye on your drink also; you don’t want your date slipping you a date rape drug. Also, clearly communicate whatever physical boundaries you have predetermined in your own mind. This needs to be discussed if he gets pushy. Don’t be afraid to say no and excuse yourself from the date if it goes south where you don’t want to go. You are only responsible for yourself and are not there to make this guy happy. If you are feeling uncomfortable with any behavior this guy is exhibiting, be assertive and speak your mind. Don’t be afraid to hurt his feelings, if you are getting scared or uncomfortable. Hurt feelings are the last on the list of your worries at that point.
For all the ladies single out there, use your common sense and you’ll be fine. Keep safety first and have fun!
San Antonio, TX
