So you’ve connected with someone online and are ready to meet them in person? Great!

Meeting up with someone offline can be super exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. It can help to remember that they are probably feeling just as excited and nervous as you.

Whether you have been talking to each other for a while or a few days, there are some simple safety tips that can help you get the most out of your offline experience:

• Meet in a public place that you are familiar with.



• Let someone (a friend, parent, whānau member) know where you are going and who you are meeting. You might even want to take a friend with you.



• Make your own way to the meeting rather than having your partner/s pick you up. This just allows you to keep your home address private for the time being.



• Keep an eye on your personal items during your meeting.



• Keep checking in with yourself - are you feeling comfortable and safe? You do not have to do anything you don’t want to and you are free to leave at any time.



• Have a plan so you can leave when you want to. You should never feel pressured to stay if you don’t want to. You do not owe your partner/s anything.



• Be prepared for things to turn out different to what you expected. This may seem like negative thinking, however it can help to be realistic. Although you have gotten to know someone online, they may not be what you expect in person. If this happens, you may want some support. Talking to someone you trust can really help.