I am getting my first snake in about a week (a ball python)! I have read read plenty and done my research and I feel like I know enough to get started. However whenever I go to any pet store I become so overwhelmed due to all of the different types of lights, therms/Hygros, UTH... I guess I am just a bit confused on what I really need.. Also I know that UTH can help keep the tank nice and toasty for my python but I have heard tons of stories of them melting through the bottom of the tank... Are they safe to use? How do you prevent this from happening?? How do you control how hot the heating sources are and the humidity??

Sorry for all the questions. I just want to make sure I completely prepared.