Dating Safely: Tips For Staying Safe While Having Fun

Date People You Know and Trust - Try to get to know your date through a group activity or a double-date before you go solo.
 
Be Extra Careful About Meeting People Online - Insist that when you meet in person, you meet in a group setting and in a well populated area.
 
Tell a Parent - Never go on a date without telling someone else. Always have your phone with you.
 
Know Your Limits and Communicate Them - If you feel uncomfortable about a situation, say "no" clearly and confidently. You're always allowed to change your mind about something, too. If someone likes and respects you, they'll back off. If your date doesn't respect your decision, stay safe by leaving the situation.

Avoid Drugs and Alcohol - Drugs and alcohol compromise your ability to make smart decisions and to escape dangerous situations.

Go Out, Don't Hang Out - Going out rather than hanging out tells your date that you think they're special and want to enjoy the world--not just the cable channels--with them.

Know The Warning Signs of Dating Violence and Relationship Abuse

Dating violence is extremely common among teens. Even if your partner is charming and sweet at first, look out for signs of abusive relationships, such as:
● Isolating you from friends and family
● Having angry outbursts
● Blaming others for problems
● Threatening to hurt you during arguments
● Getting extremely jealous for no reason
● Trying to control you by belittling your values or ideas.
 
If these warning signs sound like someone you're dating, take a step back and reevaluate the relationship. If you need help figuring out what to do, talk to a school guidance counselor, social worker, teacher, pastor, or contact Love Is Respect (chat at www.loveisrespect.org or text loveis to 22522*  or call 1-866-331-9474).
 
If you or someone you know is being abused, seek help. In an emergency, please dial 911. For all other help, please call: Illinois Statewide Domestic Violence Helpline ( 877-863-6338).