Once you’ve found someone through a dating service that you would like to meet in person, setting up a first date might be in order. Because this will be your first meeting, keep the date short and simple. One or two hours in duration, at the most.

If the two of you hit it off, you can always extend your time together. However, if sparks don’t fly you avoid the uncomfortable situation of having to suffer through a longer, more involved date. For instance, instead of eating out and going to see a movie, choose one or the other.

Your first date should be one where the two of you have the opportunity to talk and get to know each other better. A noisy, distracting environment such as a party or dance might not be the best choice.

Instead, make plans to meet at a restaurant, or even a coffee house like Starbucks. Trendy and fun, with a casual atmosphere that is relaxing and conducive to easy conversation.

Until you know for sure whether the two of you like each other in person as much as you did online, avoid sharing your address or personal information such as where you work, etc. Arrange to meet at a public place, each providing your own transportation.

There is always the chance that the person you came to know online misrepresented themselves. Therefore, inform friends and family members about your dating plans.

Tell them who you are meeting, and where. Also mention the name of the dating online service where the two of you met, the person’s e-mail address, telephone number, etc.

Reputable web site dating services such as All Link.com provide restrictions and guidelines for your benefit online. But when it comes to meeting someone in person, it is your responsibility to be prudent.

While chances are the date will be enjoyable, the need to ensure personal safety make taking precautions essential. You may have been honest in representing yourself online through the dating service. But you won’t know for sure if your date did, until after the two of you have met.