Hi Newbie, I know you have a screen name, but now you are Newbie. I am going to try your ?'s one by one. Your chicks should hatch in 16-18 days. 17 is normal, but they haven't read that book. The chicks envelope the yolk just before hatching and can go without food and water for 24 plus hours after hatch. Leave the grown birds out of the brooder, this space is for chicks only. Adult birds do not do well with too much heat, it will kill them! Also, trade in the plastic for a basic cardboard box, they breath and dissipates heat better.
I hope you mean a 250 watt heat lamp. Red is good. You will need a top when your chicks get big enough to bounce out, wire is good. Use 1/2x1/2 inch.
I use paper towels, unless their legs splay out, then replace with tool box liner paper. It is sticky for good foot grip. AND replace the paper towels, or what you are using daily. Their feet will stay clean.
Good luck, and Boooo from the Ghost!