Okay, so you’ve been corresponding back and forth for a couple months, you’ve both professed your love for “Land of the Lost”, and “Terry Pratchett”, and it’s finally time to meet.  Hopefully, all this time, you’ve been on “Clown Alert” when it comes to strange or evasive behavior.

The following are just a few helpful hints so you don’t make too big a fool of yourself (or end up in a shallow grave).

A coffee shop, or restaurant, somewhere with lots of people – the dealer’s room at Comic-Con is nice. Drive yourself there and back. DON’T go home with them (it’s a first date for Frak sake). If at any point you feel uncomfortable, leave (though if you run out on a check the chances of a second date are extremely slim).

A friend or relative should have your date’s name and number. You should check in before and after (with a get-lucky contingency).

You might even consider bringing a friend or group of friends.  A band of Klingons are always nice.

As for you jet setters, we at the Soul Geek Network STRONGLY ADVISE AGAINST domestic members setting up a date with someone outside the United States. However, you are an adult, and if you really must insist on meeting that guy/gal with the cute accent (and who is NOT subject to U.S. laws, by the way), please BE REDICULOUSLY SMART ABOUT IT!!!!

Make sure those same friends and/or relatives of yours have each and every scrap of information humanly possible - from your travel itinerary, right down to your date’s name, address, phone number, credit score, shoe size and the type of cheese preferred by their next-of-kin! You CANNOT be too careful.

Especially where cheese is concerned.

Do we really have to say getting completely falling down sh**faced on the first date isn’t a good idea? Okay, getting completely falling down sh**faced on the first date isn’t a good idea. Even getting a mild buzz going isn’t a good idea.

Anyway, no booze, no drugs and watch your drink.  Some guys’ idea of what makes a romantic evening special is a little weird - and if you think we’re being sexist here, when was the last time you heard of date rape drugs being used on a man…? (No we’re not requesting testimonials)

If things get weird, excuse yourself to the bathroom and call a friend for advice.  If things get really weird (to the point you feel you’re in danger) call the police.  Your safety is more important than what the cops may think (which is probably weird anyway).

• Evasive, vague, ambiguous, talks in circles – has something to hide.
• Inconsistency, doesn’t look like their photo or seem like their profile – fake.
• Can only meet or talk at odd hours – married.
• Professes undying love on first date (or before) – weirdo.
• Robs you – criminal.
• Looks just like you – Cylon.

Set up another date ONLY if comfortable and ready.

If it works out and you meet the Soul Geek of your dreams please tell us about it on our Testimonial Page (you’ll get a free T-Shirt!).

Basically, just remember while Fan-Guys and Fan-Gals the world over are pretty cool people, there are still a lot of creeps, maniacs, weirdos and clowns out there, and again, just to be ridiculous-clear here…

…WE HAVE NO WAY TO SCREEN FOR THAT.

Which brings us to the Legal stuff:

Although we have listed several safety tips, the list is by no means all-inclusive. Use your common sense.

We are not responsible for members' behavior, and by using this community site, you agree to indemnify, defend and hold The Soul Geek Network harmless from any losses or liability you may incur.

So have fun – but do be careful.

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