There is a trap detection skill you can use (the prisoner that wanted water drops a spell book after you give him the bottle he requires), but I just saved frequently. As you get a little further in the game there are fewer traps in most areas, and less ones that can instantly kill you. In an area you know there are traps, you can walk around with a summoning doll to trigger them (doesn't work with trapped containers, though).
The two stone gargoyles that show up when you approach the end of that corridor are always there, as are a the skeletons that show up when you approach a couple other locations. Other opponents can wander around, but should stay in the same general area (until they catch sight of you). The trap locations are set.
Lockpick should work if you have the latest
patch installed. Some doors and chests require a key or lever to open, but Lockpick should at least work on barrels and some chests.
SPOILER: Alchemy - create/combine potions
