An entertainer’s guide to staying safe, based on insights from Robert Smith’s “Dancer Safety” Seminar at the 2024 ED EXPO.
(NOTE: This story appears in the March 2025 issue of ED Magazine)
Let’s be real — working as an entertainer in an adult nightclub is exciting. The money’s good, the nights are fun and the energy is electric. However, the job comes with safety risks that few people have to deal with on a regular basis. While it would be great if every club owner and operator prioritized entertainer safety, at the end of the day, your safety is your responsibility.
In his article published in our November issue, Robert Smith of Nightclub Security Consultants examined the importance of setting boundaries at work. Based on insights from his “Dancer Safety” seminar at the 2024 ED EXPO, these tips can help you protect yourself even further.
Keep personal socials private
Creepers gonna creep, and these days, the internet makes it easy for them. If you must have them, keep your personal social profiles private and create public pages to advertise your club appearances. Think of it as a decoy to keep the weirdos distracted.
Listen to your gut
Your instincts exist for a reason, and they’re usually right. If a guest makes you uncomfortable, don’t second-guess yourself — avoid them, and if necessary, let security know. Your peace of mind is worth way more than a few bucks.
Boundaries are non-negotiable
Your boundaries aren’t up for debate — not with customers, not with management, not with anyone. If a puppy can learn to stay off the couch, people can learn to respect your limits. Set them, enforce them and don’t let anyone or any amount of cash convince you to budge.
Stay sharp when you leave work
The parking lot isn’t the place to scroll TikTok. Get in your car, start it up and leave — quickly. Keep an eye on your mirrors, and if you notice someone pull out behind you, drive to a police station. If they try to engage with you, get loud, let them know you see them following you and start recording.
Check your ride for GPS trackers
These days, stalkers will stick GPS trackers on vehicles, making it easy for them to follow someone without being detected. Learn what they look like, and check your car regularly, especially under the bumper or around the wheel wells. If you find one? Go straight to the police.
Customers aren’t your friends
No matter how much a customer swears they’re “not like other guys,” meeting them outside of the club is a risky move. Avoid blurring boundary lines and keep your personal life personal. If they really want to support you, they can do it from their seat at the club with a stack of cash.
Skip private party invites
A guest asking you to hang out after work sounds innocent enough — until it’s not. Private parties are unpredictable and increase your risk. If you must go, always have an exit plan and bring security or a trusted driver. Having backup significantly reduces your vulnerability.
Call out the creeps
If someone crosses a line, shut it down immediately. If they do it once, they’ll do it again and continue to push your limits. In addition to reporting the incident to security, tell your fellow entertainers. By looking out for each other, you’re helping create a safer space for entertainers.
At the end of the night, staying safe isn’t about constantly worrying — it’s about being smart. The money will come and go, but you are priceless. Stay safe, stay sharp and put your safety first.
For more information, visit www.nightclubsecurity.com or email Robert at rsmith@nightclubsecurity.com.
