mercury bulbs safe?

[nat_the_brat]

Hi. I decided to try out a 100 watt powersun and when it came (ordered it online) it flickered for quite a bit before working. I was using a 150 watt max light fixture though I don't believe it was ceramic. I was checking the light bulb regulary to make sure it wasn't getting too hot and I noticed that it did seem way to hot around the case of the light bulb and I could almost swear I smelt a burning plastic smell. So I unplugged and and after that the bulb refused to go on at all unless pointed in a particular direction. I have since returned the bulb and am hoping to either exchange it or get a refund. I was wondering if anyone else has had similar events with mercury bulbs and if anyone has noticed a brand that seems supierior to others. My torts absolutely loved it for the short time it was on and if I could use a mercury bulb it would be great as their enclosure it quite large making the tubes kinda usless.
thanks
I should also add that I am purchasing a ceramic base light fixture so I feel safer about any light bulbs I choose to use.