Protecting Yourself from Sexual Assault and Dating Violence

Your safety matters — deeply. At Ark, we believe that every person is created with immense value and dignity. That’s why we care so much about your well-being, especially when it comes to navigating the world of dating. We recognize that many in our community are women, and we want you to know we’re committed to helping create a safe and respectful environment where you can form healthy and meaningful connections.

As a community shaped by Christian values like respect, love, and care for one another, we encourage everyone to take steps to protect themselves and to honor the worth of others. Dating should never put your safety at risk. Below are practical and powerful ways to guard yourself against sexual assault and dating violence.

What can you do to protect yourself?

There’s actually a lot you can do — and it's not only wise, it's loving toward yourself to be cautious.

• Always meet your dates in public places. A café, park, or busy restaurant is much safer than private spaces early on.
• Avoid getting into a vehicle with someone you don’t know well.
• Take your own transportation to and from the date.
• Let someone close to you know your plans. Tell them where you're going, who you're meeting, and what time you expect to be back. Share your location with them if possible.
• If someone pressures you to go somewhere private (a car, bedroom, or house), you have every right to leave the situation immediately. You don’t owe anyone your time or kindness if they are disregarding your boundaries.
• Report any concerning or suspicious behavior to us after the date — we take it seriously.
• Carry protective items like pepper spray or a personal safety alarm if that brings you peace of mind.
• Do some light research. If you can find someone who knows your date (via social media or mutual friends), don’t hesitate to reach out. Let your date know about this mutual connection — people with bad intentions tend to avoid situations where they might be held accountable.
• Take a screenshot of your date’s profile before meeting them.
• Watch for red flags during messaging. If someone makes inappropriate comments or anything feels off, trust your instincts.
• You have full control over who you talk to or meet. If you're feeling pressured or uneasy, it’s okay to walk away or stop replying — no explanation needed.

Above all, remember that you are not alone. Whether you're looking for friendship, love, or companionship, we believe you deserve to be treated with respect and care. And if you ever feel unsafe, reach out — we’re here to support you.