Once again make sure that the flux you purchase is safe for drinking water if that is what the pipes are for.
Fire cloth: a barrier that is fire retardant can be positioned behind whatever it is you are soldering so that the surrounding area does not catch fire. Water: A spray bottle with water is a must. Wet down any area you will be soldering first and then use it as a backup if anything begins to smolder. Also, wet the area back down when finished soldering since the residual heat can still catch fire. Fire extinguisher: Always have a fire extinguisher handy when soldering copper pipe just in case something catches fire and you cannot put it out with just a spray bottle of water.
There are kits you can buy that have most of the basic soldering tools in them, which will often save you money. Consider that option unless you are looking at buying specific items such as a better-than-average torch, more solder, or a specific flux.
