We all have important documents and other items we need to safeguard to protect from being lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed. A safe in the home is one of the most effective strategies to protect valuables such as emergency cash, passports, social security cards, insurance policies, power of attorney documents and jewelry for example. But what type of safe is best for your needs? What is the type of threat that you are trying to mitigate? Do you desire a safe that is focused on preventing damage from fire, theft or both? First Lock & Security Technologies will offer some helpful tips below.
What is a Fireproof Safe?
A fireproof safe is designed with special insulation technology that helps keep the heat out of the safe and protect the items stored inside. The insulation is a brick like material that is covered with a metal fireproof housing that can withstand high heat. When choosing a fireproof safe, consider the “UL Rating” of how fire resistant the safe actually is. For example, a UL Class 350 1-hour safe means that during the typical house fire, burning at around 1700 degrees F, the safe will keep items in the safe below 350 degrees for about an hour. Please note that fire safes are not considered theft proof. They are typically smaller and can be carried away unless properly secured.
What are Burglary Safes?
The goal of a burglary safe is to provide protection against forced entry. Burglary safes feature thick steel welded plating that forms the safe’s framing. The safe door uses an even thicker steel to prevent a burglar from breaking the door. The security rating of a burglary safe depends on the security of the electronic keypad or combination dial locking mechanism as well as the secondary or relocking device. A forceful entry automatically triggers the relocking mechanism which makes the safe almost impossible to get into. Obviously, a burglary safe is recommended if you are concerned about the theft of your personal documents and other valuables you intend to keep in a safe.
Combination Fire & Burglary Safe
Combination fire and burglary safes offer the best of both worlds. These safes tend to be very heavy and bulky as they are constructed with thick steel plates and insulation brick material. Combination burglary and fire safes also use a relocking mechanism to help increase the level of security. When you desire both fire and theft protection, a combination burglary and fire safe is recommended.
Do Not Rely Solely on Your Safe
Security is about layers and it is simply not enough to just have a great safe. There needs to be security measures in place that criminals encounter before they ever even have a chance of viewing a safe inside your home. It is of the utmost importance that your home has secure front and back exterior door locks as well as secure windows.
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For quality safes to protect and secure your documents and valuables, contact First Lock & Security Technologies today.
