Dating Safety

1. Never go out for a date unless someone knows where you're going and how to get in touch with you. At the very least, leave a note in your home or car that says where you are, what you're wearing and whom you're with. That way, if you end up missing, police have a jump start finding you.

2. Never let a blind date pick you up or drop you off at home. Meet them at a well-populated place until you get to know them.

3. Never reveal personal information online: your city, school, the name of its mascot, what time you go to work or practice, your birthdate or home phone. It's also best to use an anonymous email account. If you're being stalked online, report it.

4. If you exchange phone numbers, verify their number with directory assistance or switchboard.com.

5. Watch your drink at all times in a bar or restaurant so someone doesn't slip drugs into it that'll render you unconscious.

6. A cell phone is a great crime prevention tool... have 911 pre-programmed in it.

7. Carry a personal alarm that makes a loud whistle when you pull out the pin.

8. Don't share credit card or bank information with a person you've just started dating. Con artists are great at being charming and wonderful, while scamming you.

9. Don't ever cash a check for someone you've met online. Scam artists often spend months romancing someone online, then ask them to cash checks that turn out to be bogus.

10. Beware of a person who wants to keep you from your family and friends and wants to control where you go and who you talk to. Those could be signs of an abusive partner.