Who has used a Heat Mat for newly hatched chicks?

[ducks4you]

I bought one of these last Fall:
http://www.ruralking.com/farm-innov...m_medium=cpc&gclid=CKaq_dG66MsCFQwxaQodC6kCLQ
Still in the box, but I'm tempted to use it for my chicks this year. I don't like the lamps, and I'm afraid that I might start a fire in my barn from one, which is where I have my brooder, which used to be a steel 110 gallon water trough that sprung a leak. (I put 3-4 inches of garden dirt on the bottom, then pine shavings.)
Has ANYBODY else used one of these, and what are your opinions. I'll be starting chicks end of April. Thanks!

 

[realsis]

Hi. I was going to use one like that I have for starting seedlings. my tortoises are using it right now. mine has a thermostat but it just didn't seem quite right to me.I knew I didn't want the heat lamp so I broke down an purchased a Brinsea Ecoglow radiant | heat 20 chick brooder instead. but many many people have been successful with the heat pads and really really love it.
I think it's a personal choice as to whatever you feel comfortable and confident doing. it's been proven that the heating pad is a wonderful success so I wouldn't worry about that. it's whatever you choose personally. many methods are successful so pick which ever one you have most faith in.