Hi, guys.

I'm new to the forum and don't have a great deal of experience with them. I've searched for similar threads hoping to have my questions answered but I've been unable to find what I'm looking for.

I'm considering building some snake racks to house my collection. I've been looking into available heating elements and heat tape looks like a very good option. However, after doing my research it can get quite hot and so will need to be used with a thermostat. This is no problem, but my concern is the thermostat failing at any point. I live alone and work 8 hours a day, so if the thermostat fails while I'm out I don't want to risk cooking the animals or burning the house down.

If anyone can share their methods with me or any advice that would be much appreciated. Though I'm no stranger to keeping snakes, this will be the first time I've had a snake rack setup so I'm a bit of a newbie on the subject.