I am another onliner. We will have been married for 9 years this August. I have to say, I did go thru' a few frogs before finding this wonderful man. One rule I always kept....I drove myself to any dates. That way, I was always able to leave if it didn't feel right. That being said, for the first face to face with my now DH, not only did I fly 1/2 way across the country, I also went across the border into another country. I still had my backup plan....I have an aunt that lives in the town I flew to. She was my "safe" house if needed. I also had a list of motels in the town I was headed to "across the line". As it turned out, I didn't need any of those safety nets.
Please, use lots of common sense, and trust your gut. Talk LOTS before meeting face to face. And there is nothing wrong with taking a friend with you to at least a first meeting.
Good luck, and be safe.
hugs
Patti