New Ball Python Coming!

[ReclusiveDemon]

After a good long while of persevering, I have finally convinced my parents to allow me the pleasure of caring for a Ball Python. It won't be my first snake, nor will it be my last. I've done plenty of research concerning Ball Pythons, and I'm confident that I can provide a suitable, loving home for the little guy. But, I do have a couple of questions.

I think it would be best to use an under tank heating element, but I don't know if I should get a heat pad from a pet store, or order Flexwatt heat tape. I've heard that the Heat Tape is dangerous, and can cause fires, and this worries me. Also, what kind of device should I use to control the heat from these UTH's?

Next, I've decided I'm going to house the Python in a glass tank, and I think I'll need a 30 gallon long tank. I've read that it is difficult to maintain temperature and humidity inside of a glass tank, and that those things can escape through the screen top. What's the simplest way to keep the heat and humidity from escaping the glass tank?