Until you know a dating partner extremely well:

• Plan ahead
• Let other people know where you are going, who you are going out with and when you expect to be back
• Carry money for a phone call, taxi or bus
• Carry important phone numbers in your pocket in case you lose your cell phone or can’t remember a number during an emergency
• Be alert to the locations of phones and exits where ever you are
• Alert a friend ahead of time to call the police if you don’t return after a certain time.
• Develop previously arranged code word to alert friends or family members that you are in a dangerous situation or need immediate help.
• Have a duplicate set of car keys in a location that only you know
• Date in groups
• Hang out in public places
• Be alert to non-verbal cues (how they behave – do they push you away? Are they willingly participating?)
• Be clear on your boundaries and limits
• Avoid drugs and alcohol
• Use your instincts – if it doesn’t feel right it usually ISN’T!