If meeting on a dating app, keep early conversations in the app where blocking and reporting tools are available
Meet in a public, populated place and avoid isolated locations for an initial meeting
Arrange your own transportation both ways rather than being picked up or dropped off at home
Tell a trusted person who you are meeting, where you are going, and when you expect to check-in, and consider sharing your live location for the duration of the date
Agree on a code word with a trusted friend or family member that signals you need assistance
Keep your phone charged and carry enough money to leave independently
Watch your own food and drink and avoid becoming impaired
Trust your instincts and leave if someone ignores boundaries, pressures you, or makes you uncomfortable
If you want to leave and feel you should provide a brief explanation, consider saying “I am not feeling well”, “My friend is not feeling well”, “I have to be up early tomorrow”, etc.
You do not owe a date your time and it is not rude to politely exit