BDSM?

I am 18 and newly interested in BDSM. But I don't have a clue how to begin exploring safely. I don't know anyone else who is in to it, but would love to meet someone who can show me the ropes. Any help or advice anyone has would be greatly appreciated!

I know i'm probably a bit to young to know this but honestly it all depends on what kind of BDSM your into. Personally i'm into DDLG (the non-sexual side) but even the non-sexual side is still BDSM because it's still DDLG. I reccomend exploring the different types.

@ reezzy
If you are submissive, always make sure the Dom gives you a safe word. it's VERY IMPORTANT TO HAVE ONE.

@ BringMeTheFuentes @ reezzy
Yes and no. Having a safe word is great during times when it's mostly dirty talk, so that the person knows when enough is enough. However, it's also important to have it so that during times when things get rough that the person knows to also watch body language to know how far to go. From the mild and not at all professional research I've seen, there are times when a submissive is too much in shock or too tired to actually use the safe word. It's also very important to make sure that there's enough trust there so that the dom respects the safe word or the signs of distress beyond that.

@ reezzy
Make sure you're with someone you trust and who trusts you. Depending on what you're into means you may require different things. For example, needing safe words (although I find saying "stop because x y z" works too) or safe gestures (for if someone is gagged - for example, clicking fingers).
Also make sure you and your partner are on the same page - have a few conversations before doing anything and test out different things before the Real Deal (for example, practicing a type of bondage on yourself, testing out sensation implements and making sure you each know what your "hard no", "maybe" and "hell yes" areas are).
Make sure you also practice safe sex (of course).

Depending on what you do, you may ask for different things. For example, need a safe word (although I find "stop, because x y z" works too) or a safe gesture (for when someone cracks - eg click a finger).
Also, make sure you and your partner are on the same page - have a few chats before you do anything and try different things before actually trading (eg practice some bondage on yourself, try sensory devices, and make sure you all know what you area "not difficult", "maybe" and "yes")