Stay Safe, Everyone
These are incredibly challenging times we're all facing together during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. At FF we strongly support the practice of social isolation to help "flatten the curve", slow the spread of the virus and hopefully keep the load on our healthcare systems to a manageable level.
Coronavirus: What is 'flattening the curve,' and will it work?
https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-flatten-the-curve.html
So what does this mean in terms of online dating?
I think it's pretty clear that social isolation and casual real-life hook-ups don't mix. But dating online also gives us a great opportunity to keep socialising and meeting new people while practising self-isolation.
The chat rooms, for example, are a great way to socialise, video chat and get to know people from the comfort of your couch. If you find a mutual attraction you can PM them ("whisper") to arrange a private cam date on the platform of your choice.
You can start your own blog to get interesting discussions rolling, and of course you can search for your ideal match, refine your hotlist, message members you're interested in and arrange to meet up in better, safer times.
But by far the most important message here is: please - let's all do our part to keep ourselves safe, our families safe and our society safe. Whenever possible and practical, stay home.
Some interesting articles I've found on the topic:
Coronavirus is icebreaker for online daters – but meeting has to wait
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/20/coronavirus-icebreaker-online-daters-meeting-wait
How to Date Online in the Age of Covid-19
I've found ABC Australia News really helpful to keep up with the latest developments:
Other Resources:
WHO Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
Coronavirus: What is 'flattening the curve,' and will it work?
https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-flatten-the-curve.html
I'll finish, for now, with a new song from the great Billy Bragg in light of Mother's Day today in the UK.
Please stay safe,
'ood,
FF Founder.
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(Private Profile) - 08 May, 20
-Well said Oods. Might I add that when the restrictions do lift a tad, it's not considered permission to go for an free for all, as much as we all would love that. Keep safe xxx
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(Private Profile) - 28 Apr, 20
-May I just add, the spike that my inbox has received lately in the amount of guys who are looking too want to hook up. Do people NOT understand that we’re currently in a pandemic with COVID19. I’m expressing that I’m currently not, meeting anyone during this time. I can see a lot of abusive messages coming my way, along with a lot of reporting and blocking. Unfortunately, COVID19 doesn’t discriminate against anybody - young, old, weight, height. If you’re in contact with someone, you’ll also have it. If you’re sick, stay home. If you need to see your GP, call first, most GP’s are now offering phone consultations so you can be in your pj’s in your comfort of your own home. And if you’re showing symptoms for COVID19 please go to a pop up clinic or hospital in your local area and have a test. Do not risk your health or someone else’s. For a quick root with a new person. Is it really worth it? #stayathome #besafe #waituntilthisisallover
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(Private Profile) - 12 Apr, 20
-It's surreal, like we're in a different world.
Happy Easter Oodlum, Nux and all xo
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(Private Profile) - 23 Mar, 20
-Wise advice Oods. Given how isolated a lot of people will feel in the coming weeks and months the chat room will be a great place for people to connect
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UPDATE August 2020: Melbourne is still in LOCKDOWN. It would be appreciated if people would take this into consideration when messaging others. Asking to meet up will not be met with kind words. It may well be due to people who are spreading themselves around that this situation has continued so long. Large fines are in place for those who break curfews and who travel illegally for the wrong reasons. Please be sensible and keep everyone safe.
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Well said!!!