Chapter VII · Section 2 of 12

Cuffs and restraints

Wrist and ankle cuffs in lined fabric, soft leather or neoprene, with quick-release hardware.

Before anything else

· Consent is informed, specific, enthusiastic and ongoing. It can be withdrawn at any moment, and it should be discussed before, checked during and revisited after.
· Agree a safeword and a nonverbal signal, such as dropping a held object, for any situation where speech is muffled or difficult.
· Watch for numbness, tingling, coldness, colour change or pins-and-needles. These are signs to release immediately; circulation and nerve compression can cause harm quickly.
· Plan the release before the restraint. Keep safety scissors within reach, and never use anything you cannot undo in seconds.

Quick release: Beginner restraints should open in seconds without tools: hook-and-loop, quick-release buckles or simple ties. If a product cannot be removed quickly in a hurry, it is not a beginner product.
Materials against skin: Padded, lined or soft-woven restraints are gentler on skin. Anything narrow or hard concentrates pressure and should be avoided by beginners.