Sometimes it is forgotten that flesh bruises. Bruises WILL heal, and arnica gel, which can be purchased at a health store can be used on bruises (although not on broken flesh). One should NEVER EVER try to flog around the kidneys. That can cause permanent damage to the kidneys.

Never EVER make the mistake of binding a submissive so that he/she has NO circulation in his/her limbs. ALWAYS check for color and warmth and make sure you can get at least ONE finger in between those delightful leather or metal cuffs. Make SURE that you check constantly to see that the submissive isn't binding him/herself even tighter in his/her struggles. NEVER gag a submissive without some kind of safe sign. There has been permanent nerve damage done to limbs by an unknowing Dominant.

When it comes to binding, make sure that the knots are quick release knots. There was one case where Two Dommes bound their male submissive and a fire occured. He nearly died in the fire because they couldn't get the knots undone and they panicked. Tender parts, both male and female should NEVER be bound for a long time. This can cause blood circulation to cease and if there is no blood going to those parts, those parts DIE.

There are quick release metal cuffs made, and if the Dominant doesn't want to "spring" for them (sorry, bad pun) then the least he or she should do is to have the key hanging around his/her neck or belt so that he/she can get to that key and quickly.

Another thing that Dominants should remember is that liquid latex, while erotic and a nice substitute for hot candlewax, should be used in a very well ventilated area. The stuff stinks to high heaven and some people are allergic to latex. Be SURE first! Never ever EVER cover the submissive entirely with the stuff, it could kill a person because the skin can't breathe properly.

And for crying out loud, if you are going to do anal play, make SURE that you can get the darned thing OUT as well as IN. Emergency rooms have seen WAY too many folk with things up their bottoms..and the doctors have to basically put them out, lubricate them up..and use forceps to get out such interesting things as light bulbs, toy battleships and the like.

Dildos can be used either erotically, or roughly. Both the anus and the vagina are very vascular areas and can be easily damaged with rough play there. Another thing one should do is always clean those "toys" properly afterwards. Running lukewarm water over them doesn't cut it. AND... No moving from anal to vaginal with the same toy!
If you are playing with a submissive for the first time, please, PLEASE don't bind AND gag the submissive at the same time. You do NOT know how he/she is going to react, nor do you know his/her body that well. There HAS to be an "out" for the submissive.

Now, here's another thing that actually did kill a person. A Dominant and a submissive wanted to do enema play. The Dominant used vodka in the enema bag and filled the submissive. Unfortunately, the anus is a very vascular area..and anything that goes there instantly goes into the bloodstream. When one drinks alcohol, one has a sort of a "safe" system (i.e., one usually passes out or vomits) but there IS no safe system with an enema. She was a lovely girl and now she is dead due to this unsafe playtime.

Nipple clamps and/or clothespins are lovely tools to use. It is suggested that if the submissive has never been clamped, a total of no more than five minutes. Remember, when those clamps are removed, the pain will be excruciating so be gentle. The experienced submissive will have to know his/her limits. It is suggested, however, no longer than about 20 or 30 minutes, tops.

If a submissive is suspended, extra care MUST be taken. First, the thought of rising him/her onto his/her toes is VERY tempting. It is not a good idea, especially the first time, until the submissive grows used to it. After that maybe a bit more suspension, but once again, care must always be taken to ensure that the submissive is not going to suffer any permanent damage. The Dominant and the submissive should discuss any possible health and/or back problems before the scene ever occurs. Another reason for a safeword: if there is REAL pain.. as in utter agony... then the scene should STOP... and pronto! If one's doctor tells him or her there are certain restrictions, such as lifting, etc., then that should be a clue as to what one can do during play.

Hot wax is a wonderful tool. Again, the Dominant should make absolutely certain that the candle is held at least high enough so that there is a delightful "sssss" rather than a "YE GODS, WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO ME??"
It is a good idea also for the Dominant to know CPR. There are sometimes unknown medical conditions that can result in a very nasty ending if the Dominant isn't prepared. General First Aid knowledge is also a great tool, and a First Aid kit should be a main component in any toy bag.

Here's some suggestions for items to be kept in a First Aid kit:

Common sense is a necessity... and don't assume that just because you've heard something can be done... or have seen it described online, that it can convert easily to RT. Think about what you're doing... there is a real live person here... and you are taking physical responsibility for him/her in a scene. And once a submissive hits subspace, he/she is seldom able to tell you that something is wrong. It is YOUR responsibility to be alert to possible problems!

Enjoy yourselves... but do so safely!!!