When arranging to meet someone keep these things in mind:
- take your time - get a 'feel' for the person before you meet.
- talk on the phone a few times before arranging to meet.
- meet in a public place.
- don't immediately accept an invitation to their place, unless you know they are genuine.
- meet in a place where other people are present.
- don't get picked up from your home.
- always provide your own transportation to and from your meeting place.
- tell a friend where you're meeting your date, where you are going and when you will return.
- leave your date's name and phone number with a friend, or where they can be found if you return late.
- send yourself an email saying where you are playing, with whom, when you will return, and their contact details.
- call a friend to say you are safe when you have met your date.
- agree a "signal" that will tell a friend if you are worried.
If you invite someone to your home, don't leave any valuables on show, or leave your date alone - unless you know they are genuine.
Use your judgement, remember that you make the decisions - you decide when you feel comfortable meeting someone.
You're never obligated to get together with anyone, no matter how many e-mails or messages you've exchanged.