Things to Consider when Shopping for a Safe

Whether it is for residential or commercial use, there are a lot of factors to weigh when buying a safe. Considering safes are where we keep our most valuable items and documents, it can be a bit stressful and even overwhelming trying to be sure you make the right choice. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which safe is right for you.

Contents

First, you need to look at what you're planning to protect in your safe. In addition to the items you currently need to secure, try to plan ahead and consider what you may need to store in the future as well. You want to be sure the safe you choose is sized and rated for the kind of protection the items need. It may only be paperwork today, but cash, valuables, collectibles, firearms, etc., may be added down the line. It is often more economical in the long-term

to purchase a larger safe now instead of buying a

replacement or additional safe down the line.

Location

Where are you planning to install your safe? You need to think about protecting the items within the safe as well as the safe itself. This means keeping it away from moisture and extreme temperature variations to avoid corrosion. Condensation should be avoided. The ideal environment will be indoors and out of reach of the elements. It can be tempting to use an unfinished basement or garage, but that can introduce moisture and damage both the safe and its contents.

Installation Options

These days, there are all kinds of options out there for you, from long gun safes designed to install under the bed to wall safes and floor safes. Whether you need one on your nightstand or under the counter at your business, there are designs out there to fit your needs.

Insurance

Insurance can be affected by your safe purchase in both the residential and commercial sectors. Using a safe can save you money on your premium if it meets the criteria set by your insurance company. Additionally, if it is a commercial purchase, your insurance company likely requires you to comply with a minimum safe rating. In either sector, making the right safe choice can protect your money in 2 ways: protecting your cash, and keeping more of it in your pocket!

Portability

It can often be tempting to buy a safe off the shelf of a box store, but if you can carry it or easily transport it in a shopping cart, it will likely be easy for a thief to walk it right out of your home with it. Choosing a cheaply made safe that is easily stolen can cost you more in the long run than not having a safe at all. This is an area of the market where you truly get what you pay for. Saving money on your security can mean losing it and more in the long run.

Fire Rating

Particularly in cases of fire, consider where the safe is being housed and that location's distance from emergency services. If you live in an area where it may take a while for the fire department to reach you, accordingly consider the fire rating of the safe you are looking to buy. Fire ratings are measured by two main factors: time and temperature. Safes are thoroughly tested, and each one is marked with a fire rating that tells you how long that safe and its contents can survive at high temperatures. If you know it's going to be a while before help comes, you'll want to account for that when narrowing down your safe options by fire rating.

Hardware

How and why you access the contents of your safe can inform your decision on lock mechanisms. One of the biggest advantages of a dial entry safe is reliability. Mechanical dials last a very long time, and you don't have to concern yourself with the battery life of your interface. A disadvantage is they can take longer to unlock if you're accessing the contents in an emergency. If you'd like quick and easy keypad access, be sure you are replacing the batteries regularly. Some change the batteries in their electronic locks on Daylight Saving days, while others replace them any time they replace the batteries in their smoke detectors. Find a schedule that works for you. It is a lot easier to change a battery than it is to drill open a locked safe with a dead battery.

Questions? We can help. The Lock Shop (401) 885-7878