5 min read
The first-date safety checklist
Ten simple habits that make meeting someone new safer, from choosing the venue to getting home.
01Pick a public place you know
Choose a busy café, restaurant or bar you have been to before. Avoid private homes, remote parks or anywhere you would need a ride from your date to leave.
02Tell someone where you will be
Share who you are meeting, where and when with a trusted friend. On Riven, Date Plan does this in one tap and can include a live-location link while the app is open.
03Arrange your own transport
Drive yourself, take a rideshare or use public transport. Keeping control of how you arrive and leave means you can end the date whenever you want.
04Keep your phone charged
Leave with a full battery and carry a small power bank if you can. A working phone is your link to friends, rides and emergency services.
05Stay in control of your drink
Order your own drinks, watch them being made, and never leave a drink unattended. If something tastes or feels wrong, get help from staff right away.
06Keep personal details private
Your home address, workplace, finances and daily routine can wait until you know someone well. A good match will respect that.
07Video chat first
A short video call before meeting helps confirm your match is who they say they are, and that you actually get along.
08Trust your instincts
If something feels off, you do not owe anyone an explanation. It is always fine to leave early.
09Have an exit line ready
Agree a check-in text with a friend, so they can call with an 'emergency' if you need a polite way out.
10Know how to get help
In an emergency, call 911. Riven's Emergency alert emails your trusted contacts a live-location link and repeats every 10 minutes.