Talking on the phone first is a good way to get to know your potential trick better. But don't give your number out to anyone about whom you have even the slightest suspicion.
 

Trust your instincts. If you're getting any kind of creepy feeling, forget it.
 

Know the age of consent laws in your jurisdiction. Be aware that, in addition to age of consent laws, many jurisdictions have specific laws forbidding the "grooming" of anyone under the age of eighteen for a sexual encounter via the Internet. If someone represents himself as under eighteen, have nothing to do with him.
 

Once you've agreed to meet face to face, don't ask the other person to pick you up. Get yourself to and from the date, even if you have to beg a ride off of a friend or take a taxi.
 

Before you go, make sure that friends know where you're going, who you're going with and when to expect you back. Make sure everyone writes down the information so that there are no misunderstandings.
 

Arrange to meet in a neutral but public place (e.g. a bar or café) and let someone else (even a barman) sees you there together. If you don't hit it off, it's much easier to say that you have a meeting or some other commitment that requires you to end the date prematurely.
 

Stay in a public place. If they pressure you to go elsewhere, say NO. If they pressure you, they obviously don't care about your feelings - don't spare their feelings. End the meeting and leave. If they start to follow you to where you've parked, stop and hail a cab. Come back later for your car with a friend or family member.
 

Don't be pressurised into giving away too much detail about yourself in the first instance - saying what you do is one thing - saying exactly where you work is quite another.
 

Let your date know if you're going to be late
 

Take a cell/mobile phone. If you need help or feel a little nervous, excuse yourself to the bathroom and call for back up! Put together an instant, "accidental" meeting with a friend. They're also good for emergencies or in case you think your online love is an offline stalker who's following you home. Use the cellular phone to call the police - just don't head back home. Keep the person far from there. Drive to a police station if you feel it's necessary.
 

Never leave your personal belongings unattended. A purse or wallet contains all of your personal information. In your jacket pocket could be your keys. Just don't take the risk.
 

Do not leave your drink unattended if you do ask for another drink. Or ask for it in a bottle.
 

Don't drink too much - being drunk is not a good way to be safe.