50 Shades of Grey - Safe Words

Safe Words

One safety technique is the safe word. This is a word the sub can use in scene to either modify the scene or stop it completely. The word should be something that normally won't come up in a scene, something like "falwell" for instance. No, stop and ouch are obviously poor safe words. Some people use the stop light system; Green meaning more more MORE. Yellow meaning this is getting intense you had better slow down or change what you are doing. Red meaning stop immediately. My particular word is a modifier. If I use it my Dom knows that anything I say after it is to be honored. This works well when you have a problem that doesn't require the scene stop like a cramp or something, but it might not be best in an emergency. Parties will often have a house safe word. Anyone within earshot or safety people (Dungeon Masters) can respond if they hear the word. If a partner is gagged an alternative safe sign can be used, such as a hand signal, series of noises, or dropping an object held in the hand. Safe words are another item to include in negotiation. If a Dom doesn't honour safe words then back off, and re-negotiate, or end this and find someone who will honour safe words and protect you from harm.