Personal safety is always a big issue, and we have many built-in safeguards to protect you while using this web-site. However, when choosing to meet a stranger in the 'real' world, a few simple steps can be taken to achieve the safest possible environment for that first contact.

We regard personal safety very seriously, and have taken time to compile a safety guide for anyone planning to meet somebody for the first time. All points are purely guidelines, and are designed to help you improve your level of personal safety.

	Get public! Always arrange to meet in a busy public place, preferably in daytime, until you are sure of the their identity and you feel comfortable being with them.
	Stay public! Never take your date home, this is seriously dangerous. Never go back to their place either, or accept a lift anywhere. Don't put yourself in any situation where you will be alone together, you will be vulnerable.
	Way out! Choose a meeting place where you will be able to get away easily if you need to. Observe all the exits on the way in.
	3's Company! Take a friend along to the first meeting. Pre-arrange signals with your friend to indicate a)"I don't feel safe, lets get out of here", and b)"I feel ok, you can leave, but I will call you in 1 hour".
	Tool up! 3 invaluable tools for your kit are a mobile phone, a gas-powered personal alarm, and some good excuses, (Think of some excuses to leave, before you arrive). You never know when either tool may come in handy.
	Log in! Tell a friend where you are going and who with. Give your friend all the information you have on the person you are meeting. Most importantly, tell your friend what time you are due home.
	Regular report! Arrange to call a friend regularly at set intervals, keep your friend updated as to your whereabouts and plans. You could even pre-arrange a signal for your friend to join you or to summon some kind of help if you feel uneasy.
	Trust instincts! If you feel uneasy about someone, there may be a good reason. If you don't feel safe with them, don't give them personal details about yourself and don't arrange a second date, - make your excuses and leave.
	Mutual understanding! If the person you are meeting is genuine, they will respect your need for safety. If any of your safety measures annoy your date, or if they try to persuade you to change your mind, than that's your cue to leave.