Brown spots on ball python's tail?

[Bogertophis]

Actually, would a plastic water bottle work? Apparently we dont have any jars that don't have food in them

Sure, an empty water bottle- a canteen, anything that holds water- but not a thermos, because that's insulated- you want the heat to escape to warm the snake.

I had to do this once (use jars of hot water) when I lost power for 4 days due to an ice storm (in '09). I bagged my snakes securely (separately), then put a couple in each of multiple "ice chests" (no ice!) for insulation- to keep the warmth from the jars of hot water inside. They stayed quite comfortable for 8-9 hours, but in a normal enclosure (not insulated), the warmth from jars of water won't last as long- but it will still help. You can refill them more often for a while if you want- but don't stay up all night...

It's low-tech, but this works quite well.

And yes, I agree- wait to report this stuff, & since we've discussed more about his animals here than is flattering, don't send him here either. You're really in a tough situation.