How to power a homemade lightbulb safely
The main issue here is really safety. You are concerned about not being able to unplug the bulb due to how hot the alligator clips get. This is a valid concern.

Depending on the current used, a typical automotive 12V switch may help. Most have multi amp ratings at 12V. This 8 dollar switch at Orielly Auto Parts (common auto store) claims 30 Amps.



Wire this in series, and flip the switch when you want to turn your project on and off. RadioShack has similar ones.

Alternatively, you could use a simple switch and a relay. Just as easy.

To address the actual heat issues, a 12V computer fan, in parallel, could be used for some active cooling.


  My theory of creating another bulb to increase the resistance wouldn't work due to time constraints.


Your Theory is correct. Two of these bulbs in series would increase the resistance, and thus decrease the current draw. You would be redistributing the heat created as well, half on each bulb.