When dating online, how long is a good amount of time to talk to someone before meeting in person?

It is pretty hard to get to know someone online or on the phone, but I would have as much interaction as you feel comfortable with before you meet in person. I would also stalk any social media and look for red flags. The first in person meeting should be in a public place...like a busy restaurant for lunch. You should have friends or family know where you are and when they should expect to hear from you after the "date." DO NOT BE AFRAID TO GET UP AND LEAVE if during the interaction something goes wrong...also, I would be reluctant to share home addresses until you have met a couple times, simply because you never know.

In addition, I expect that you will provide me with the name and any details so if something goes wrong I can make a trip to Florida and off them for you.