The others have pretty much covered everything, but I would add;
1. Use spray adhesive and tape to secure your pattern to the wood - it lubricates the blade and stops the smoking.
2. Most of my cuts are quite intricate, so I rarely speed up at all - use what's comfortable for you.
3. As stated, small cuts are best done from larger pieces, but if you can't, use another block of wood to wedge one side against the blade, and that will keep your fingers out of the way (and give more control).
4. Everyone else is correct - I've never used the foot piece either - it gets in the way.
5. The reverse tooth blade (various pointing upwards near the bottom) is designed to reduce the amount of splintering on the back of the piece you are cutting.
I think that's everything. Keep at it, and good luck.
Regards,
Nick