How do I plan a safe first meeting from a dating app?
Before you meet
Video chat or a phone call before meeting can help confirm that the person is who they say they are. Share the date, place and time with a trusted friend, and check in with them during the evening. Keep your home address and workplace private until you feel comfortable.
Verify the basics. A mismatch between photos, stated age and what the person says on a call is a warning sign. Trust your judgment if something feels off.
- Make a short video call first
- Tell a friend the plan
- Keep home and work details private
- Choose a public place with easy exits
During and after the date
Arrange your own way to get there and back, so you are never dependent on someone you just met for a ride. Keep your phone charged and your location sharing on with your friend if you are comfortable with it.
If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you are free to leave. Leaving early is a complete answer, and you do not need to justify it. Choose a meeting place you already know, and plan a simple exit line in case you want to leave early. Share your check-in times with a friend so they know when to expect a message.
Common mistakes
- Agreeing to meet at a private home or isolated location on the first date.
- Sharing your address or workplace before you know the person.
Related questions
- How do I know if someone is old enough to date online?
- What should I do if someone sends unwanted explicit texts?
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- What does consent look like in a text conversation?
- How do I report harassing texts on a dating app?
- How do I know if a match is who they say they are?