Rape is a horrifying, repulsive act. But surprisingly, most rapists will appear friendly and trustworthy. In fact, nearly half of all reported rapes are committed by someone the victim knows and trusts. To protect against the threat of date rape, you should take the time to plan a safe first date.
Instructions
1. Tell a friend or family member about your date. Make sure someone knows where you're going and who will be accompanying you. For extra protection, have a friend call to check in on you during the date.
2. Set a self-imposed curfew. Agree on a time that the date will end and hold yourself to it. Even if you're having a great time and feel perfectly safe, it would still be a good idea to get home before it's too late.
3. Drive yourself on a first date. Sharing a ride with your date means you won't be able to get home unless he agrees to take you. Driving your own car might be slightly inconvenient, but you'll give yourself a greater degree of control and safety.
4. Drink responsibly on a first date. Alcohol can impair your ability to make safe decisions. Make sure that your date also drinks responsibly too, as alcohol can make a young man far more aggressive and amorous than when he's sober.
5. Go somewhere that's well lit. Schedule your first date during the day. A trip to the beach or a mall will allow you to spend plenty of time together without having to go somewhere dark and secluded.
6. Plan to go out in a group for a first date. Try to coordinate an activity that involves other couples. At the very least, you should go somewhere that's social and crowded to avoid spending any period of the date alone.
7. Read about the risks of date rape drugs. These drugs can be odorless, colorless and flavorless, so pay attention to your food or drink closely while on a first date. Watch for symptoms such as drowsiness or dizziness, since they can be signs that you've been slipped a date rape drug.
Tags: first date, date rape, your date, Make sure, somewhere that