First ball python!!

[Reed12321]

With all due respect, if it's burning hot for you to touch, it's already WELL past the point of being able to burn your snake. As pointed out, going by touch is not an accurate measure of whether it's hot enough to burn your snake. If someone asks me the number one husbandry item to get, it will always be a quality thermostat, no matter how cold the environment you live in and where the snake will be.

Gameonpython - I'd like to think if a forum administrator is telling you to get a thermostat, then it is probably a good idea. I hate to say I told you so, but your BP's health and well-being is our number 1 priority. Buy a thermostat.