Tips to stay safe on Valentine's Day when using dating apps

WASHINGTON (WJLA) — Valentine's Day can be a romantic and cozy day of the year to celebrate with someone special; but people also tend to take advantage of the day for nefarious purposes.

Members of the Washington, D.C. police shared some tips online for those using dating apps to find their match, and avoid pitfalls on this hopefully happy evening.

First date with someone from an app?

• Always meet someone new in a public, safe and secure environment.
• Confide with a friend, family member or trusted peer about your plans for the evening. Update them about where you will be, when you will be there and who you will be with.
• Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
• Trust your instincts, if someone makes you uneasy, avoid that person and leave the setting.

If someone tries to rob you?

• Don't fight back, give up your property
• Report the incident to the police right away. Try and describe the attacker in detail.
• Make yourself seen. Self-defense measures, like running away, hiding, screaming and raising an alarm are most effective when applied as preventive steps.