Adventure Safety Tips - Meeting friends or Dating

Opt for rendezvous in well-frequented public venues. Always prioritize this choice!

• Public places like coffee shops, restaurants, or busy parks provide a safer environment for your first meeting. There are more people around, which can deter any potential wrongdoing.
• Try to choose a venue that's conveniently located for both parties to reduce travel time and avoid isolated areas.

Inform a trusted confidant of your whereabouts. Share details of your plans, including the time and location, and commit to keeping them updated within a specified timeframe.

• Share your date's details with a close friend or family member. Make sure they know where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you expect to return.
• Set up a system for regular check-ins, such as texting them when you arrive at the location and when you leave.

Conduct thorough research. Request their surname, conduct discrete background checks (though respect their privacy), and encourage them to undergo our photo verification process.

• Asking for your date's last name is a reasonable request and can help you gather more information about them.
• While respecting their privacy, consider doing an online search to ensure there are no red flags or concerning information about them.
• Encourage them to use photo verification on the dating app for added authenticity to their profile.

Safeguard personal information. It's wise to withhold certain details during initial encounters, such as your residential or workplace addresses.

• Protect your personal information. Avoid sharing specifics like your home address, work address, or financial details during the first date.
• Keep your social media profiles private or limit the amount of personal information you share online.

Make room for a preliminary screening. Suggest a pre-date FaceTime or phone call, and gauge their response; hesitation may signal a mismatch.

• A pre-date video or phone call can help you get a sense of your date's personality and ensure they match their profile pictures.
• If your date hesitates or makes excuses to avoid this step, consider it a potential red flag.

Always retain the freedom to gracefully exit the date. In any social context, prioritize your comfort and well-being while maintaining kindness and empathy.

• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe during the date, it's entirely acceptable to leave early.
• Politely communicate your feelings and intentions. You don't owe anyone an explanation if you decide to end the date.

Seek assistance from venue staff, such as bartenders or waitstaff. Stay vigilant about your surroundings and identify a potential ally nearby. Request the staff's aid in orchestrating your departure, perhaps by feigning an urgent call. In more serious situations, don't hesitate to ask them to contact the authorities or assist in arranging transportation home.

• Keep an eye on your surroundings throughout the date. Be aware of the location of venue staff and other patrons.
• If you need help leaving a date discreetly, signal to the staff that you require assistance. They can help create a graceful exit, such as pretending to receive an urgent phone call.
• In case of a severe emergency or if you feel threatened, don't hesitate to ask the venue staff to call the police or assist you in getting safely home.

Trust your instincts during the date.

• Pay attention to your gut feelings. If something doesn't feel right, take it seriously and act accordingly.
• Observe your date's behavior and demeanor; inconsistencies or discomfort should raise concerns.

Have your own transportation to and from the date.

• Whenever possible, avoid relying on your date for transportation. This gives you control over when you arrive and leave.
• Arrange for a backup transportation plan in case your primary mode falls through, such as a ride-sharing app or a taxi service.

Keep your phone charged.

Ensure your phone is fully charged before the date. Having a working phone is essential for emergencies or quick communication. - Carry a portable charger or power bank to recharge your phone if needed during the date.

Watch your drink and food

Never leave your drink or food unattended. Be cautious of accepting drinks from strangers. - If you need to use the restroom or step away, finish your drink first or ask the staff to prepare a fresh one upon your return.

Discuss boundaries and consent beforehand

Before the date, have an open conversation about personal boundaries and consent to ensure both parties are on the same page. - Agree on what is comfortable and acceptable during the date and respect each other's boundaries throughout the evening,

Know the location's exits

Familiarize yourself with the layout of the venue and the locations of exits. This can be useful in case of an emergency. - Identify any potential safety or security personnel in the venue.

Avoid overconsumption of alcohol or drugs

Excessive alcohol or drug use can impair your judgment and make you vulnerable. Consume responsibly. - Consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages to stay alert.

Carry personal safety items if needed

If you feel safer carrying items like personal alarms or pepper spray, make sure you have them with you and know how to use them properly. - Consider taking a self-defense class to boost your confidence and ability to protect yourself in various situations.

These comprehensive safety tips can help ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.