OPP Dating Tips

Saturday, 6 December 2014 at 06:37

A Simcoe man recently had his wallet stolen after an online date.

NORFOLK COUNTY - Norfolk OPP are offering offline dating tips after a Simcoe man had his wallet stolen from his home.

OPP were called earlier this month when a man claimed he went on a date with someone he met online and noticed after that his wallet -- which included personal information -- had been taken.

Constable Ed Sanchuk says there are simple steps singles can take to protect themselves when meeting someone offline.

-Get to know the other person before meeting them offline
Get to know someone before disclosing personal information or meeting in person.

- Always meet in public
Meet for the first time in a populated, public location – never in a private or remote location, and never at your date's home or apartment.

- Stay in a public place
It’s best not to go back to your date's home or bring them back to yours on the first date. If your date pressures you, end the date and leave at once.

- Tell a friend
Inform a friend or family member of your plans and when and where you're going. If you own a mobile phone, make sure you have it with you.

- Stay sober
Keep a clear mind and avoid doing anything that would impair your judgment and cause you to make a decision you could regret.

- Drive yourself to and from the first meeting
Just in case things don't work out, you need to be in control of your own ride – even if you take a taxi.

- Keep personal items with you at all times
You don't want to risk having personal information stolen. If you're drinking, keep your drink with you at all times so it can't be tampered with.

- Long Distance Meetings
Long distance meetings pose special safety concerns to take into account. Keep these tips in mind.

· Stay in a hotel. Check into your own room and avoid staying in the other person's home. If you can't afford a hotel, you shouldn't go.

· Use a taxi or rental car to get to and from the airport. Securing your own ride is important. Even if the person you're meeting volunteers to pick you up from the airport, do not get into a personal vehicle with someone you've never met.

· Keep your hotel location confidential. The person you're meeting should respect your privacy until you know each other.

· Remember to keep your family and friends posted. Tell someone who you are meeting, where you are going and when you will return.

"Everyone needs to be vigilant of online and offline safety at all times, it’s as simple as ABC- Always Be Careful," comments Constable Sanchuk.