By Laura Snyder

It’s easy to be attracted to someone on the rebound without knowing it. Sometimes the very signs they’re recovering are what draw us in -- they’re all about having fun, they often flatter us silly with compliments and sweet sentiments, and they usually aren’t afraid of getting serious.

But your heart’s at risk if you fall for a rebounder. Play it close to the vest if your new love interest exhibits any of these classic rebound red flags.

Rebound Red Flag#1: It Gets Serious Super-fast.

Is he or she rushing into a Really Serious Relationship with you? A honey who’s still haunted by past hurts may subconsciously try to recreate that old kind of commitment, even if neither of you are ready for it. If the breakup was recent or brutal, take it slow until you can suss out if there’s anything genuine between you.

Rebound Red Flag #2: You’re the total opposite of the ex.

While he’s enthralled by how you’re so different from the gal who dumped him, he’s not really seeing you. It’s hard enough opening up and revealing your true self to someone in a new relationship without also having to compensate for his ex’s flaws.

Rebound Red Flag #3: She’s Emotionally Schizo.

One day she’s super attentive, the next she’s saying she needs her space. What gives? She’s still bouncing along on the rebound if her feelings about you seem to go from highs to lows.

Rebound Red Flag #4: He Downplays the Past.

Your dude is still in denial if he can’t admit to how strong his feelings were or how much the breakup hurt. Someone with a healthy distance from their past should be able to admit to loving, losing and learning from it. If your sweetheart isn’t up to that, they could still be lovesick.

Rebound Red Flag #5: You’re Desperately Needed.

Do you find your new love’s holding onto you like you’re a life raft on the Titanic? The whole point of a rebound relationship is protection– or just distraction – from the recent heartbreak. You boost the rebounder’s ego and keep him or her from feeling the loss just by being there—but the risk is that when the hurt is healed, he’ll move on. Maintain your space until you’re sure you’re safe.