If you're cyberdating, using the personals or even a dating agency you haven't tried before, it makes sense to...
Arrange to meet for coffee or lunch rather than dinner. Not only are you safer in broad daylight but you don't waste time if it doesn't work. Help prevent any unwanted chasing (which might turn into stalking) by being polite but not leading them on. If you don't fancy them, just say 'You're a great person X, but unfortunately, not what I was looking for'.
Stick to an area that's well lit with lots of people around. It's a good idea to meet in a place where you're known so the person you're with can be identified. Chat away to the waiter/waitress so it's obvious you've been seen with them.
Don't invite strangers to your home and don't go to theirs until you know them very well.
Trust your gut instinct and listen carefully to their relationship history. Are they using the service for the right reasons or are they just after sex?
Give the details of your date to several friends - where you'll be, the time you'll meet, the person's name, phone number and address. Get them to phone you an hour into the date to check you're OK, you phone them a few hours later to report in again.
Now put your dating skills to the test!