cariad, you took the words right out of my mouth.
I think we all just have to be careful. Yes, there are newbie subs and wannabe subs as well - but it is the Doms who have the potential to cause so much more damage.
There is always the possibility that these wannabe Doms will eventually find their way to being "true" Doms as well. Perhaps this is just their first step on this amazing journey. I would be willing to bet that a good number of the most wonderful Doms on here have made some mistakes along the way.
My advice to newbies on both sides is not to commit to anything until 1) you are sure of what you want, and 2) you are sure of what you are committing to. I took my first collar because it honestly didn't even occur to me to say no (how is that for reasoning?). But you live and learn - and try to pass on some knowledge to those that come after you.