According to the US Census, 44 percent of adult Americans are single.  That means more than 130 million people are prowling for a perfect mate.  With so many people on the dating scene, you can never be sure whether you’re going to meet your Prince Charming, or come face to face with a rotten old toad.    

Personal security should already by a priority in your daily life, but it’s especially crucial when dating – you never know what to expect when meeting someone new.  Here are five things you should do to increase your personal security when dating:

• Choose a public place.  It might not be incredibly romantic or intimate, but mini golf or a crowded theater is a safe choice for your first few dates with a new person.  In addition to selecting busy locations, you can enhance your personal security by driving there separately.

• Consider double dating.  Not only will another couple ensure a safer evening, but having extra people will alleviate some of the awkwardness associated
  with dating someone new. 

• Be careful what you disclose on a first date.  Getting to know your date is important, but that doesn’t mean you need to discuss your bank account or investment holdings with someone you just met.  Start with your favorite food, wine, or movie – save the proprietary information for later in your dating relationship.

• Carry mace or a panic button.  These personal security items are things you should regularly carry anyway – bringing them on a date is just an extension of that security.  Don’t walk around with your finger over the panic button all night, but keep it handy in your purse – just in case.

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.  When dating, you might not be comfortable poring over all the details of a new relationship with your entire family, friends, and neighbors.  But it’s a good idea to tell someone where you’re going and who you’re going with.

The majority of people have sincere intentions when dating.  It’s unnecessary to go to extreme safety measures before or during a date, but keep in mind that unfortunate things have happened to people on the vast dating scene and it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.