How to Use Facebook Places

Get the necessary gear. As of August 2010, you can use places on: The newest version of the Facebook iPhone or iPod Touch app. The mobile web app at http://touch.facebook.com . This requires a HTML5 compatible browser (e.g. new versions of Safari, Firefox or Chrome) and a device capable of supporting geolocation. Ensure that your phone has the most up-to-date software or the application might not work properly, or at all.

Launch the Facebook app.

Get to the menu by tapping on the icon with three horizontal bars in it.

Tap Nearby. You will then see a list of your friends that are close to you, or friends that checked in recently.

Tap the Check in button. You can also tap check-in anywhere on the site where a button is located. There is one on your profile and your newsfeed.

Tap your location in the list that comes up, or search for your location. If your location does not appear even when searching, you can add a place by tapping on the white plus sign in the upper right hand corner. Add a name for your place, then tap add. A notice will pop up warning you that places are public. Be careful about adding a place such as "home" or "Sarah's house." Anyone in the vicinity will be able to locate your house based on the map. Stick to public places, such as restaurants, hotels, etc. Tap add to proceed.

Edit your post.

Edit your privacy. Tap on the privacy icon (see photo above). Make sure that the option for "Public" is not checked, especially if you are away on vacation. There have been many instances where people have checked in at hotels or resorts on Facebook, only to come back home and find that their house has been broken into. Checking in publicly is a great way to let thieves know that you have vacated your house. To ensure your safety, don't check in anywhere while on vacation - you can add your location to photos and status updates when you return.

Tap Post. You have now checked in on Facebook Places!