OK, we all know this hobby is illegal and there is no way to make it totally safe, but there are things we can do to reduce the risk.

The guy that just got busted in St. Paul was suspicious until the decoy named his favorite activity. I have never discussed activities before being naked and in bed.

I know some ladies like the cop check, at what point should a guy feel comfortable discussing activities?

Also, I always have the donation ready, in an envelope and I drop it without mentioning it. I think discussing $$ before anything happens is an major risk.

What else do you guys do with a first time provider? Also, if a lady gets butt naked, aren't you preety much in the cear?

There was another bust recently? When did that take place? Isn't St Paul a area not to play in?

From what I have heard, the cop check is not very useful.  I have read accounts of legal cases where the courts have upheld LE being able to go pretty far, including some mutual fondling of both parties, in order to make a bust.

I'd keep discussion of activities to as little as possible until that first date is well underway at the least and I would not assume that once she is nude that you are OK.  If you are seeing someone for the first time who has a good review history, you should know pretty much what to expect.  If she doesn't then I would mostly go with the flow and let her show me what she's about.  If I like it enough, I'll be back and it's easier to talk more each of you knows the other is legit.  Of course, that's not a guarantee as she could get turned so you still have to pay attention if things seem strange and be willing to walk on subsequent visits.

And if it goes south just remember (and this is of course a lot easier said than done) that no matter what LE says to you, you're best strategy is to refuse to answer any questions beyond identifying yourself and insist upon speaking to a lawyer.