Being burned over much of your body is no fun. In some cases, you will be working with flammable items. It cannot be stressed enough here to have at least something to put out flames. Baking soda, water, or a good fire extinguisher will do wonders. This plus your location can help. You do not wish to be around other items that will catch fire easily. Your best bet is to do it outside.

A fire extinguisher is the cheapest thing you can have with you, compared to a burned section of your house or apartment. Even better would be doing the job outdoors, with a water hose and/or bucket nearby. It would help to have a companion with you to watch things as well.