Outdoor Cruising

Regardless of whether you are in a park, a public washroom, at the beach or on a hiking trail, remember you are in a public space. It’s not illegal to cruise or pick someone up, but it is illegal to have sex in public places.

Before you go

• Check local newspapers and/or cruise lines to see if a site has been in the news (it may attract the police or people who will compromise your safety).
• Become familiar with the area. Look for exit routes, how to get to a safe area and remember things look very different at night.
• Try and let someone know where and when you are going (you don’t need to tell them why you are going). Ideally go with a friend and arrange to meet up regularly while there.
• If you have a cell phone, turn your GPS or locating feature on and have emergency contact numbers to dial.
• If you have been using drugs or drinking alcohol your judgment will be impaired and you may be more vulnerable to situations that compromise your physical safety and overall health.

What not to take

• Credit cards, jewelry or large amounts of cash. Even if you keep them in a zipped pocket they may still be lost or stolen.
• iPod or Walkman. They will distract you and may make you a target for theft.
• Anything with your address on it. Losing a paper with your address may lead to further harassment or assault.

What to take

• Condoms, barriers, and lubrication (be prepared, you may not be able to get any later).
• Enough money to get home (if you are taking a bus/cab).
• A personal alarm or whistle to attract help or scare off attackers.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (You may have to run or some places may be muddy or slippery.
• Cell phone with emergency contact numbers to call for help if required.

When you're there

• Keep anything of value hidden away.
• Be assertive about the sex you want. Don’t be forced into a situation you are not happy with.
• Do not go off with someone to a place where you may be more at risk.
• Be discreet. If the general public can see you then it may lead to complaints and the involvement of the police.
• Don’t leave used condoms and other sex litter; it draws attention to the area, and complaints from other users that may result in police action.

If you're attacked

• Make as much noise as possible to attract attention and scare off attackers.
• For your safety, get away as quickly as possible.
• If knocked to the ground, cover your head and keep moving, making yourself a harder target to kick.

Resources

• Cruising: The ins and outs of hooking up for gay and bisexual men