The Dangers of Dating and How to Protect Yourself

Going on a blind date is actually a lot more dangerous than most women realize. Even if a friend or family member has met your date, who's to say that the guy is truly who he says it is? Remember, the friend who set up the date may not really know this guy at all. She might not even know his last name!In fact, even if it's not a blind date, how well do you really know this guy? Be aware of the possibility for danger, watch for warning signs, and carry self defense products so that you can keep yourself out of a dangerous situation.

When you're first dating, it is very common to know virtually nothing about your date. This places you in a vulnerable situation. The first few dates are statistically more dangerous – that's when a rape or attack is more likely to occur. On the other hand, can you really screen your dates beforehand to avoid this possibility?

During the first few dates, ask your date plenty of questions to get to know him. Be leery if he avoids personal questions, such as his occupation and where he lives. Consider looking your date up on social networking sites like Facebook or MySpace so that you can see what he's like before your date. Still, don't be lured into a false sense of security if your date appears to be normal from this superficial glance into his life. There could be a lot under the surface that you simply can't find out about online.

One of the ways that you can make dating safer is by suggesting a group date or double date until you get to know each other a bit better. This will allow you to have a security net of friends with whom you are comfortable. If your date refuses to be around your friends, this is a warning sign. You may not want to go out with him if he's only willing to see you alone. Another important move for your safety is to drive yourself to the date. You should never accept a ride from someone you don't know well, even if he is your date. You never know what kind of dangerous situations this could get you in. Always pay attention to the body language of a date. While you can expect them to act nervously, warning signs include becoming angry or agitated at insignificant things. Many women don't see the warning signs of body language until it's too late.

Unfortunately, there is no concrete way to tell that a date might try to harm you until it's happening. There are some very effective self defense products that you can use to protect yourself from harm. Pepper spray, stun guns, personal alarms, and other devices are invaluable in these types of situations, and can be easily carried in your purse. These self defense devices will disable an attacker long enough for you to get away. Too many women don't even consider carrying these products until they've already been attacked once.