That too is an excellent point about gags- while we may want to experience it all on the first day, a gag is a very dangerous thing when starting out. Coupled with a collar which is a little tight, it could become more than uncomfortable.

Don't forget when you get hot & excited one's limbs & neck can swell, making ropes or restraints much tighter.

I always advise taking it one step at a time, the combination of things can increase the discomfort & panic level exponentially.

Further to my first post on safewords, I just think there's so much more to this than just saying 'oh the safe word is hippopotamaus' & going out the room for a coffee. Each situation is different.

Also I've never played to the extent some people do!
Slow & gentle wins the race for me.

Tojo