In a scene it is a specific word which is unlikely to come up in general or role-play conversation which can be said / shouted out to let your partner know "Enough is enough, I've had my fill, lets get out of here". Examples of safe word systems are... CRACKERS (Hell who says that in normal conversation?), GREEN Code for "More please!", RED Code for "I've reached my threshold / limit, keep it here".

When the subject has been gagged to increase the session it is important to have an alternative action. This can still be vocal, such as as S-O-S grunt, or an action such as a rapid slapping motion with whatever limb is free!

Safe Words / Actions are communication tools which enable you and your partner to control the scenes you take both part in. Communication is VITAL, after all, do you absolutely know how far you'd like to take things? I know I don't always!

Safe Words / Actions prevent hurt feelings / unwelcome emotions, for example without such communication you wouldn't be able to communicate your need to go further or stop until it was all over, by which time it'd be too late.

Some people just don't use Safe Words / Actions, they just communicate directly... I find sometimes it is a better turn on to do this... Have you ever said to someone "Hurt me more?" and meant it in a kinky way? It is a totally soul opening experience, trust me on this one.

Others have been going through the motions so long they no longer feel they need one, this is dangerous (For example, what if a medical condition were to kick off during a role-play scene, "stop your hurting me" just doesn't cut the ice!).

One word: Safety.

Abusive conditions can easily occur through not using a Safe Word / Action in a role-play situation. You're not aiming to hurt the person emotionally, don't take the risk.

Arrange this BEFORE you begin! You wouldn't want to spoil the mood now, would you?