Generally, online dating can be extremely safe, if you bear one or two points in mind. It is a great fun way to make new friends and maybe find that special someone. You have control and there is considerable comfort in knowing that you can develop friendships of your choice at your own pace whilst respecting the other person's right to privacy and choice. A considerable safety advantage is the distance between you. Initially all contact is anonymous and you do not have to reveal anything until you are ready. You cannot see or hear each other and the usual senses cannot be relied upon so initial contact is by the written word only. This can be open to exaggeration and at times, downright dishonesty so be aware, trust your instincts and keep things light hearted until you feel ready to take things a little further.

Before giving personal information or arranging to meet someone who is still a virtual stranger it would be prudent to follow a few basic guidelines. The following points may seem obvious but we feel that they are worthy of regular reference. The person you have been waiting for may be waiting to meet you. We hope they are and wish you every success.

•  Take your time browsing and view as many profiles as possible.

•  Ensure that your personal 'phone numbers, address and email address are held in a secure sector of the dating portal and not displayed for general viewing until you are ready to divulge this information to a contact yourself.

•  Do not believe anything which sounds too good to be true - it probably is.

•  Ask as many questions as you wish.

•  If you don't feel comfortable with the way things are going, call a halt to the contact.

•  Do not tolerate abuse of any kind.

•  Before accepting a date, do as many checks as possible to verify information you have been given. If you are not happy - don't accept.

You are in control - don't let yourself be persuaded about anything if you are not entirely comfortable.

Points worthy of consideration

•  Get to know each other - take your time.

•  A genuine contact will be happy to wait until you feel comfortable about meeting.

•  Ask to see photos so that you will be able to identify your new friend when you meet.

•  If possible, ask your date to leave a voicemail message for you, before the meeting.

•  Arrange a telephone chat before accepting a date - get to know each other a little better.

•  Arrange a public venue you are both comfortable with for your date and always ensure that a friend or relative knows where you are meeting and who you are meeting.

•  If the opportunity arises during the date, check in by 'phone with a friend.

•  Ensure that you have your mobile 'phone with you or borrow one.

•  Until you know your date better, arrange your own travel both to and from the venue and never accept a lift home on the first date or reveal your address.

•  If travelling any distance, make your own accommodation arrangements. Confirm it yourself and, for safety's sake, keep it to yourself.

•  At your first meeting, make your date aware that you can meet for about 1 hour - this gives you a 'cut off' point if you feel you need it. Mid-week, daytime meetings are ideal.

•  Don't feel you owe it to your date to go ahead and meet simply because it has been arranged but do try to let them know you have changed your mind.

•  You will be alone, meeting people who are almost

strangers to you so if possible, have a friend close by this will offer additional support for you - both for safety and as a second opinion.

•  Although this advice may be somewhat obvious, it is there for your peace of mind so, do what you feel is best for you and above all, enjoy your dates.