I've read about the dangers of Cl but backpage looks identical in the type of ads. Am I to assume the risks are about the same?

Pretty much.  It is free to post ads on either one, so the clientle from CL will eventually find their way to BP.... many already have.

Use review information to chose providers. All escort malls are filled with upsellers and outright ripoffs, if you go in blindly you could get burned. All escort malls have winners posting ads, you have to insure that you end up with a winner instead of rifraft.

When it comes to adult services, BackPage is a pay-to-post site.  Its not much (the rate varies by market), but it is something.  Additionally with BackPage being an advertising partner of TER, one would expect to have smarter providers and hobbyists visiting there.

When LE tries to sting, they usually go for cheap (free), quick and easy!!!  CL fills that bill.

NEITHER.  If the lady doesn't have multiple reviews from established reviewers, I pass.