Hello,
I just got a little pastel girl a few days ago and I was hoping to get opinions on what is best for her. I don't do the forum thing normally, so forgive me if these questions are redundant. OK, here goes:

I bought a 15qt sterilite container that I hope to be able to keep her in. However, I've been searching all over and cannot find any information on how to set up a heat source properly on a plastic tub.
Basically my worries are that with a UTH (which I planned on buying) it could pose as a fire hazard being set on the ground or a shelf (I have literally no experience building or putting things together on my own, haha)

How do you guys set up your heat sources on plastic tubs, and is it dangerous for a UTH to be on carpet or wood?

I also read about setting up aluminum foil along the bottom so it evens the heat out...is that necessary for plastic tubs?

Last question! (sorry this is so long!)--
I wanted to get some opinions on feeding outside of the tank. I was always told that to feed the snake in a different enclosure will help reduce the risk of being bitten when opening/reaching in the tank, but with all I've read on the ball pythons, I'm afraid that it might stress her out and lead to no eating at all.

This little girl is already VERY precious to me, and I just want to make sure that I get everything just right.
Thanks in advance for any input!! (I hope I'm not breaking any rules or anything by posting this here)

-Lynn