A few tips,
As with airbrushing, I was taught to do two shallower cuts, rather than one deep one.
If in doubt, stop, measure, refer to drawings them carry on.
Always were your safety specs even if the lathe is not moving at the time, that way if you catch something with your hand or something or someone accidently sets it in motion.
Always, always take the chuck key out before you start the lathe.
And the most important one, keep your tools sharp, and clean, keep an eye on them for chipped blades, tips or other signs of stress, if in doubt get a more experienced machinist to check them, or replace them
With non lubricated swarf (the bits of metal you cut away, razor sharp by the way!!) I found a small wet n dry hoover is a safer way to clear them off the cutting bed without getting them embedded in your fingers or gloves.
Read the manual and reallly get to know your lathe, also look for information such as where to lubricate the mechanism (if needed) and any routine maintenance it may need to perform well.
Finally, always put the guard I its rightful place before starting the lathe, even if there is nothing in the chuck.
When you get started playing, look at the indexing marks on the control handles, and really look at how they effect they have on the cuts you make, look at videos, and maybe have a word with your local model engineering society, odds on someone will be willing to help you get started.
Most importantly, have fun with the lathe, when you get the knack of it, there is not much you will not be able to make.
Hope this helps.
Sean