The meet

These tips could save you a lot of grief.

No matter how often you've been in touch or met before, don't feel forced to meet someone if you don't want to.

Before the meeting

Chat on the phone before meeting. It's useful for sorting out men who appear suspicious or time wasters.

Let the man you're meeting or going off with know other people are aware you've gone with him. He'll be far less likely to take advantage if he realises he's been noticed by others or can be traced.

Write a note that others could easily find in an emergency. It should identify who you're meeting, when and where.

Valuables

Don't leave valuables lying around your home or leave him in your home on his own.

Don't take valuables (such as credit cards or large amounts of cash) into places where you can be robbed or have your pockets picked, like cruising sites or sex clubs.

Proceed with caution

Trust your instincts. If he or the situation gives you doubts, it's probably with good reason. Make your excuses and leave.

Going to an isolated place with a stranger is risky. And so is letting a man you don't know give you drugs; you could react badly or he could take advantage.

Letting a man you don't know tie you up allows him to more easily drug, rob, injure or sexually assault you.

Leaving drinks unattended or accepting drinks from strangers carries the risk they could be 'spiked'.