We’ve all joked about it at some point in the online dating process. Disappearing after a date, or even worse, having your head stored next to somebody’s Chunky Monkey pint in the freezer. The reason why this is funny is because it seems so far removed from any possible reality to our lives. ‘No way could this ever happen to me’ is the thought process that goes through all our minds. The truth is, it isn’t too far from any of our realities. Mishaps and misfortunes do not discriminate against any of us; regardless of the demographics. We’ve all watched Dateline and 20/20; we know what kind of crazies there are in this world and what could happen if you have a lapse of judgement. The outcome is never a happy ending. But, we’ve also taken stupid chances during our dating and online dating experiences. Reckless ones. Dumb ones. Really dumb ones. We’ve all had that twinge in our stomach that said ‘I shouldn’t be doing this. I know better’. Yet, you still find yourself, partially clothed, in his apartment, and you don’t know his last name.
Being that we would like to avert any traumatic experiences or untimely death, it is pertinent that we follow some basic rules of the road. Given that in today’s dating culture, more often than not you are meeting your date from an online app; it is that much more important to exercise caution. Let’s recap some basic safety measures. Conduct a high-level Google/social media stalk-a-thon, you’d be surprised at all the information available. Side note, remember to act surprised when he tells you he is a twin, when you already know that his twin Adam is a cop. Meet your date in a public place. The more people, the more eyes. Text your bestie his profile, any recent pictures he sent you, and if you want to earn that extra girl scout badge, send his phone number too. Text them the locale of the date or where you will be meeting. Make sure somebody has all the relevant information regarding the identity of the person and your whereabouts with them.
Most of these deviants seem innocent. You could be having a nice time until they abruptly take a turn on you. Some may even tease you into dropping your boundaries by saying you are too paranoid. We know it’s easy to get carried away in the moment, especially when you are having a good time and when alcohol is a component of the night. We aren’t telling you not to have fun, just be mindful. Try to make sure the rules of the road are etched in the back of your cranium and practice safe dating so that the breaking news is a new relationship and not you on the 11 o’clock news.
