either way the answer is the same:

Read the Self Help Manual that you will find linked on this page.  It is an essential compendium of everything you need to know about using TER for the greater enjoyment of this hobby as well as the hobby in general.  Check out the link on this page where the life preserver is.

Welcome and best wishes.

Hello to all. Well I'm new to TER,and was wondering if any of the ladies or fellas have any advice to give on starting out? Thanks to all in advance!

Read back several pages on this board.  Every question imaginable has already been asked and answered.  Finally, use the Self Help section to learn the "search" function, so if a specific subject concerns you, you can find the threads on that.
Good luck!

Not only has every question been answered...  scenerios you've not thought of yet have been discussed.  The education available in these pages...  mostly for free...  is priceless!  But you must invest you time & filter the information in light of your own circumstances.
skb

1) Read the newbies guide poster at the top of this section under the life preserver.  
2) Read it again when you are done.  
3) Follow the newbie forum here watching the responses to the general questions that every newbie has.  
4) See well reviewed providers and learn how to do your own research to make sure you stay safe and out of jail.
5) Join a screening service (i.e. P411, RS2K, Date Check, etc.) they will make your life much easier.

Commonly referred to as the 'newbie manual'.  You have gotten some good advice here, so take some time and read the manual.  VIP membership is well worth it even if you have to pay for it initially.  I know, I paid for it until I got this high paying job as a moderator.  The verification sites are very good for those hobbyists just starting out.  You may have to give up some personal info unless you have a provider recommend you.  Check in your area to see which site is most popular around you.

The best advice I can give you at this point, is to do your research on any provider you intend on seeing.  Safety for both of you is of the utmost importance.

Swim

Click on the link and then look in the upper right portion of the screen

Under the life preserver it will say "Self-Help Center"