Having a little toddler in the house is similar to having a small dog, cats, birds, even you!! A good keeper does not permit a snake to roam the house unattended. A good keeper of snakes make certain that their snake-caging needs are taken care of completely.

With a Bci, a reptile cage is a really good plan given that they are so very strong. I have my three Bci females in 2x3x1 cages from RBI heated by RHP's. These cages are terrific and fit the bill quite nicely. Two of my girls are yearlings and I am just now starting to see new cages in their futures. As I have been planning for this eventuality for some time, and I will purchase them each their own AP T20 (6x2x2), with RHP's and glass doors.

My point is, if you purchase or build appropriate caging for the snake you choose, the only way for a snake to escape is through human error. That said, I am pretty certain that there has not ever been a human death related to a Bci. (Other members, please correct me if I am wrong!)

In my opinion, I don't beleive you are too young for a Bci with the caveat that you have adult back-up; and it sounds like your step-dad is happy to be your back-up! Lucky you!!

My opinion is bias as to the snake to choose; I only have Bci's. I love them....well, there is one who I choose to believe has it out for me!! Lol!!! I am trying to love her through it!!! Lol!!!!! I strongly recommend that if you choose to adopt a Bci that you speak with Jimi who is a mod on this forum. He knows the personalities of his snakes and their offspring and he is a real stand-up guy. He would absolutely be able to sell you a snake that is mellow and perfect for you. And, icing on the cake, his snakes are totally gorgeous!!!!

Lastly, maybe you could invite your mom to this forum so that she might be able to ask the questions she might have and air any concerns that might be bothering her. She would be able to receive reliable information which might allow her to feel more comfortable with the safety concerns she has shared with you.

Anyway, it is very cool that you are doing all of this investigation prior to adopting a snake. In the end, this will pay off for you and your family as you will choose the best type of snake and have your husbandry and caging in order.

Take care.