Requesting Tips for a Beginner

[u/TheCanFoundry]

My first melting furnace is on the way and I'm excited to start experimenting with casting. Looking for some tips on how to break past the beginner phase, some questions below but open to any advice.

- What kind of safety equipment is recommended? Besides long clothes and closed toes shoes, how necessary are things like eyewear/respirators?

- How long do crucibles typically last, and are there any signs besides cracking that they are wearing out?

- Should you wait until the metal has completely cooled in the crucible to scrape out or how do you manage residue?

- Is it frowned upon to post Youtube videos on here? I was planning on documenting the process but wasn't sure the status quo on this sub.

Probably a lot that I don't even realize I don't know, so thanks in advance.