Dating in College Safety Tips

College is a time to form new relationships and meet new people. Use these dating safety tips so that your dating in college experience is a safe one.

College is a great time to meet new people, and even possibly find your soul mate. However, while searching for Mr. or Ms. Right, it's important that you make smart decisions that will help you stay safe while dating in college. Use these simple dating safety tips from ADT to be a winner in the game of love.

 

Let someone know when and where your date is.

 

Dating safety in college starts with communication. Let your friends or a nearby family member know where you will be, who you will be with, and the time that you are estimated to return from your date.

Make sure they are close to their phone if this is someone you've never met before... whether that's via a dating app or mutual friend. Be sure to call and check in with that person as soon as you get home.

 

Brush up on some self-defense techniques

 

It never hurts to be prepared when it comes to your personal safety. Check to see if there are any free self-defense courses that are offered on your campus.

 

Be on the lookout for Campus Emergency Stations

 

Know the locations and phone numbers of your local emergency stations and law enforcement so that you can quickly find help if you are in a dangerous situation.

Always keep your cell phone fully charged and close by when you are out on a date.

 

Online Dating Safety Tips for College Students

 

Dating sites have made it easier than ever to connect with people in your area. With that easy comes a level of risk. Follow these tips to help navigate dating site matches.

 

Protect your identity on Online Dating Apps and Social Media

 

In the age of online dating services, there are more than a few romance scams targeted to steal personal information.

Never share your sensitive information with someone you do not fully know or trust. Keep your address and financial information private until you truly know the person you are dating.

 

Try to verify your date is who they say they are before meeting in person

 

If you met your date on an online dating platform, there are a few things you can do to help ensure the person on the other end of the messages are who they say they are.

1. Set up a video call. Yes, talking on the phone can be nerve-wracking, but having a virtual face-to-face convo can help make sure the profile pic is legitimate.

2. Online daters have the power of social media at their fingertips. Check out your date's other social profiles and scan through pictures to make sure it matches what you know about the person. If you can't find them on social after meeting on a dating app, that could be a red flag.

3. Google is your friend. Doing a quick search for your date's name can help make sure you don't walk into a date with any surprises. You can even check court records in your state to look for any history of abuse or illegal activity.

While these aren't foolproof methods, they can definitely help you feel more comfortable before meeting your date.

 

Meet in a public place that's frequented by other people

 

Only go on dates in areas that you feel safe and comfortable in. Avoid situations where you may be caught 1-on-1 and always put yourself in a position to reach out to others for help if you run into an uncomfortable situation.

Always keep an eye on your drinks and food. Stay alert, and never leave your food or drinks unattended.

 

Group dates are the way to go

 

Utilize group or double dates if you are going out with someone for the first time. Group dates are the perfect way to get to know someone better while being in a safe and comfortable situation.

Never invite anyone into your home that you do not trust or know.

College is a great time to learn not only skills that will help you further your career, but college dating can also help you form social skills that will help you live a more fulfilling life. Be a smart dater with these college dating safety tips from ADT!

For more articles on college safety, please visit our college safety tips page.

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