I once met someone on the same day as first chatting here (i am such a slapper

) but have also met folks after a considerable amount to discussion. Nearly all have been good and no horror stories to report.
As for safety... tell someone where you are going (always good to have a guardian angel

) and if you feel it is necessary then arrange for them to rescue you if they don't hear from you by a certain time, meet somewhere public and take it steady. Try not to drink too much

.
Trust to your instincts, especially if they are telling you to walk away cos 'better safe than sorry' really does make sense in situations like this. Make sure that you have discussed the basics of how far you intend to go etc. Cool guys appreciate that you don't commit yourself to anything til you meet and see how you get on etc. - if they are heavy about this then that should set alarm bells going and you should be on your way home alone if you have any sense.
Having said all this there is a lot to be said for taking the odd risk here and there.
Socials are also a great way to meet folks and take away some of the stress.
Last edited by on 6th Nov 2009 - 5:58pm; edited 1 time in total