SAFETY ADVICE FOR DATING

At TrustCupid.com we encourage members to be honest with each other. However as there is no way of being absolutely certain that everyone is honest please be cautious when you communicate. Everyone can become a victim of crime, though women are particularly vulnerable. We therefore strongly recommend for your own safety the following advice: -

Never give out your full name, home address, telephone number or any other sensitive personal information until you feel comfortable.

There is no need to disclose your external email address. You can continue to send and receive emails via our onsite email system.

If at any point you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, trust your instincts and end contact with that person.

When you decide to contact one another by telephone, use a mobile phone. Don't provide a home telephone number or address.

When you're ready to meet someone, arrange to meet in a busy, well-lit public place. Don't let anyone pick you up or meet you at your office or home.

Let someone know where you are going, how you are getting there, when you are expected to arrive and when you are expected home. Tell them where you are at regular intervals on your date.

On your date drink responsibly. Never leave your drink unattended or drink anything that has an unusual taste. Alcohol can be used to disguise date rape drugs.

If you don't wish to see your date again, be honest and tell them firmly in a considerate way.

Remember you are in control. It is your responsibility who you contact and who you don't. Don't put yourself at risk and trust your instincts. However, If you continue to receive messages after you say "no" to further contact, you should block that member.

GENERAL SAFETY ADVICE FOR WOMEN

GOING OUT

Let someone know where you are going, how you are getting there, when you are expected to arrive and when you are expected home. Tell them where you are at regular intervals.

When out with friends, keep together and try not to get separated.

Watch what you drink. Don't let your drink out of your sight or drink anything that has an unusual taste. Alcohol can be used to disguise date rape drugs.

Travel home with friends if possible. If you have to walk alone carry a personal alarm. You should be able to find one locally. If not your local police station should be able to advise where you can purchase one.

If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street. If they follow, get to a busy place and phone the police.

Walk with confidence and try to keep to well-lit, busy areas. Avoid shortcuts through dark closes, parks or across derelict or waste land. Don't use a personal stereo, as you will not be able to hear someone approach.

Walk on the outer part of the pavement so you can see further ahead.

Always walk on the side of the road against the flow of traffic on busy roads. This makes it more difficult for drivers to follow, as they have to reverse against the flow of traffic.

If you feel concerned, try to keep close to a group of people. Shout 'police' or 'fire' if someone tries to grab you. Keep your personal alarm in your hand when walking alone, not in the bottom of your handbag.

Keep your handbag close to you, across your body, and ensure that any valuable items are well hidden. If someone grabs your bag, let it go. Your safety is more important.

Only use cash point machines in daylight or well-lit areas.

Carry a mobile phone. Be careful where you use it.

If you use a phone box, turn round after you have dialled so that you have your back to the phone and can see all around.

In case of emergency keep some money on you.

IF USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Check the times of transport and plan your journey before you travel.

It is safer to go out in a group. Wait in a well lit, busy area until the public transport arrives.

On empty buses, sit near the front of the bus beside the driver. Choose an aisle seat for a quick exit.

If you book a taxi in advance in the UK it is usually possible to trace the driver.

USING YOUR OWN VEHICLE

If you think someone is following you, try to tell others by flashing your lights and sounding your horn. Keep going until you reach a busy place.

Do not pick up hitch-hikers (Remember the 'The Hitcher' with Rutger Hauer).

Carry a mobile phone in case your vehicle breaks down.

Park in a busy, well lit, area. Make sure you lock all the doors and keep anything valuable in the boot, out of sight.

As you return to your vehicle, get your keys out in advance and make sure there is no one inside.

If you are worried about safety and wish to find out more contact your local police station or The Suzy Lamplugh Trust at www.suzylamplugh.org.

If you have any safety tips you would like to share please let us know.