Many Bisexual/Gay guys enjoy cruising...

Checking out the talent.

The eye contact.

The chase.

The thrill of sex with a stranger.

These have been liberating and exciting experiences for generations of men from all walks of life But - there have always been risks doing this.

Cruising can be made safer if you are prepared.
If you are confident and know what you are doing.
If you are aware of the risks and you are in control.

No matter how long you have been cruising treat each time out as a new adventure with its own risks, rewards and dangers. Think things through before you set out.

Here are some good tips and advice on Staying Safe:

Spend time checking out the area, get to know the layout, the safest places and the escape routes.

You are there to enjoy yourself so if someone starts to do something you don’t like you can say ‘NO’

 

Cruising activity can intimidate or offend locals and passers by. Try to keep it safe and discreet at all times. Public complaints can lead to the police taking action and areas being closed down.

 

Indiscreet behaviour in cottages can be particularly offensive to other people using the facilities.

 

Most complaints to the police or councils relate to litter and used condoms. Keep your cruising ground clean by taking your used condoms and litter home with you or put it in a bin.

 

Don’t carry recreational drugs with you when you go cruising.

 

Avoid drawing attention to yourself – for example, talking loudly on a mobile phone or wearing expensive clothes.

 

Carry minimal cash and leave expensive jewellery, watches and credit cards at home.

 

Avoid carrying anything with your address on it, in case you are robbed or attacked and your keys are taken.

 

Keep your wallet, phone, keys etc in a zipable pocket.

 

If your instincts are warning you off, listen to them, don’t take risks with someone you are unsure of.

 

If you have been out for several hours, your defences may be lower and you may be inclined to take more risks. Realise that it is time to go and try again another day.

 

If you are in a park or open space, stick to areas you know are safe. Try not to cruise around the edges of a cruising ground where you may be visible to the public, the police and gay bashers.

 

If you are attacked, make a loud noise – scream and shout (something that will not be mistaken for screams of pleasure) to attract the attention of others.

 

If you see someone in trouble try to help him, don’t just walk away. Remember, next time it could be you.

 

If you cruise on-line let someone know your plans.
Tell them where you're going, the person you are meeting, and when you expect to be back - or write a note on your computer with this information.

Homophobia is still a reality and cruising grounds are dangerous places. The safest solution to a dangerous situation is to get away. If you are not confident about reporting an attack directly, you can report through a third party or check the link on this site for more information any contact with these organisations will be treated strictly confidential.

Hate crimes need to be reported if further attacks are to be prevented. the police will deal with your complaint in a professional and dignified manner.

Cruising & Cottaging - The Law

A new addition to the Sexual Offences Act is the specific offence of 'Sex in a Public Toilet'.

Sex in a public toilet is illegal, if someone complains and you are caught with your pants down you could be prosecuted

Punishment: Up to 6 months in prison, and/or a fine. So be discrete at all times!

If you are arrested you are entitled to free legal advice and should ask for a solicitor to be present. You are only required to give the police your name and address. The police may ask you for proof.

You do not have to give information about your job or where you work.

You do not have to reveal your HIV status unless you require medical help - and then only to a police surgeon.

You will be required to sign a number of documents, always read them carefully and make sure you fully understand what you are signing.

NEVER PLEAD GUILTY if you have not committed the offence.

The information in this guide has been produced with the co-operation of :

Safer Sex

Always Carry Condoms and Lube.

Using extra strong condoms and plenty of water- based lube when having anal sex is still the best way to reduce the risk of the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Regardless of HIV status using condoms protect you and your partners – it is not only about HIV but also other sexually transmitted infections.

If he doesn’t want to use condoms, don’t assume he is the same HIV status as you.

Oral sex is low risk as far as HIV is concerned however you can still pick up other sexually transmitted infections.

Free condoms are available from :

( check the free condom link on this site )

Don’t be afraid to ask the HIV status of the guy you are planning to have sex with. You should also be aware of your own.

You have the right to stop having sex whenever you want. You do not have to carry on if you don’t like it or feel unsafe.

For more information on HIV, sexually transmitted infections and HIV testing visit the health page or click here.

Worcestershire Gay Men's Health Project can advise on safer sex and how to stay safe.

Please dispose of your used condoms carefully, wrap them in a tissue and put them in a rubbish bin or take them home. More complaints are received about used condoms left lying around than about men using the sites.

DON’T PUT USED CONDOMS DOWN THE TOILET