Dating Safely: these guidelines can help you stay safe on a date.

Date with others: It's always a good idea to date with other couples or keep a group around until you get to know and trust your date.

Know the plans: Before you go on any date, make sure you know:

• What you will be doing
• Where you will be going
• When you can expect to be back

Tell someone: Always tell someone where you're going, who you will be with, and when you will be baCK. If you're not comfortable telling your parents, make sure you tell a friend. Check in with that person when your date is over.

Know the effects of alcohol and drugs: Alcohol and drug use are dangerous on their own, but they can put you in more danger by making you unable to make good decisions or by making you so incapacitated that you can't take care of yourself.

Assert yourself: You should be treated with respect at all times. If something is happening that you don't like, communicate your wishes clearly and boldly.

Trust your instincts: If something about a date doesn't feel right, don't be shy about it. Get out of the situation.