FindFriendsForFun

Meeting People Safely

Meeting new friends is fun and exciting but it is worth following some sensible precautions.

Chat online and exchange emails for some time then when you feel comfortable and have built up an element of trust and understanding speak on the phone to get to know each other before arranging to meet up. Please think twice about offering personal contact information to members who make these requests in initial communications, even if they offer their personal information, don't feel obligated to provide yours.

Choose a public place to meet, such as a restaurant, cafe or coffee shop. Preferably go somewhere that you know well and where people know you. In terms of safety a day time meetup is preferable for the first meeting at least.

Let someone know where you are going, what time you will be back and who you are with. Make plans to call and check in with that person. Give the person the phone numer and email address of the person you are meeting. Even better, take someone along with you.

Do not have the person pick you up from your home- and do not offer to pick them up. Have your own means of transportation so that you can leave whenever you wish to do so.

Follow your instincts. If something doesn't feel right just leave. Don't worry about embarrassment, your safety is more important than worrying about your behaviour.

Do your research on the person before meeting them. Do a credential check using Google.