I met my husband online six years ago and we have been happily married for four years. We both grew up in the same city but did not go to the same schools. His kids were the same age as two of mine, but we would never have met if it wasn't for online dating. I dated for about a year before I met him. I would always meet my date in a public place and he would never know where I live until I had seen him a few times and felt ok with it. I also always had my own car and someone knew where I was going and with whom.
Online dating can be dangerous, but so can meeting someone in a bar. I say to go for it and have fun!