In the age of technology, dating apps, and social media, it isn't uncommon for interest in someone to begin online. While online safety is a process in itself, taking steps to ensure physical safety upon meeting an internet stranger, is crucial.
KEEP YOURSELF SAFE.
Have a Safety Person
Any time we are meeting a stranger, or going to events on our own, it is important we use a safety person. Everyone should utilize having a safety person, regardless of your role in the lifestyle. This should be a trusted person who has all the information about the who, what, when, and where. Any changes to the plans should be communicated to your safety person immediately.
Who:
Your safety person should also know exactly who you are meeting; name, age, social media screen name, etc. When you meet up with a stranger, exchange drivers' license/state IDs. Not only does this allow you to see that the person is 18+, but you can also take a photo of the ID and send it to your safety person.
What:
Your safety person should know what your planned meeting should entail; eating a meal together, seeing a movie, walking through a park, attending an event, etc. If the details of what you will be doing change, let your safety person know what's going on.
When:
The safety person should be informed of what time you are meeting the person or attending the event and roughly what time you will be leaving. Plan on specific timed check ins (every hour), where you reach out to your safety person and inform them you're still doing well.
Where:
Your safety person should have location information, including exact addresses. If you're meeting at a restaurant, your safety person should know the address and name of the restaurant. They should know what time you're going to be at that location, and roughly what time you will be leaving. If you're going to a secondary location, they should know the same information for that location as well. When traveling with a stranger, send the make and model of the vehicle you're in to your safety person, as well as the license plate.
Pro Tip: if the person you are meeting up with, has an issue with you checking in with your safety person, that's a huge red flag and safety concern!
First Meet Vibes
Keep your first meeting vanilla. Treat this similar to the vetting process, and don't jump directly into play. You still want to to go through the negotiation process thoroughly, and not be distracted by playing. Instead, use this time to build the relationship in a general sense, not just as a dynamic. Even if a dynamic isn't established, this could still be a friend in the lifestyle. Take time to make sure you're compatible, and remember to never settle.