Safes have always been and continue to be a sound investment when it comes to home security or business security. Not only do they help protect your valuable items and/or important documents (including storage devices such as hard drives) from theft, they also guard against building fires or flooding.
In a previous blog entry, we covered some of the theory behind safe installation and also what to do if you forget the combination. (Hint: A trusted firm like Peninsula Locksmiths & Security can lend their expertise in both areas.) In this article, we’ll be going into a bit more detail about how to select the right safe.
Cash Safe or Fire Safe?
While essentially the same thing, the difference between a cash safe and a fire safe is that the latter has been specifically engineered to withstand fires of up to a certain temperature for a certain period of time (check the information provided by the manufacturer as this varies between models). If you’re storing only/mainly flammable items, then a fire safe is obviously a better choice.
Mechanical Lock or Electronic Lock?
This one may come down to personal preference. There are many people who will always prefer an old-fashioned mechanical combination lock. However, an electronic lock utilising a keypad lock actually has several advantages. Firstly, these types of safes tend to be quicker to open. Secondly, if you wish to change the code or have forgotten the old one, the relevant processes are easier.
While we’re on the subject of locks, Peninsula can also perform safe servicing when you require it. Regular checks of your safe (recorded in a security register) might be necessary for a company to meet the expectations of a government department or other client. Safe servicing is also just good business practice.
Built-In or Freestanding Safe?
By “freestanding”, we mean either movable or bolted down but able to be unbolted. Built-ins are safes permanently fixed into either a wall or the floor. The latter are often encased in concrete.
There’s obviously a lot more work involved in setting up a built-in safe – and you can’t take it with you when you relocate. However, these can be incredibly secure and, when well positioned, often go completely undetected by thieves. Floor safes are usually viewed as superior to wall safes. However, you do hear owners complaining about it being a hassle to access them and/or organise the contents, so there’s a trade-off. Personal preference will again be a factor.
What About Legally Storing Firearms?
These are a special case and don’t require a safe as such, but rather come with their own detailed set of storage rules that you can find here.
For Cash Safes, Fire Safes, Safe Servicing and Much More!
Talk to Peninsula Locksmiths & Security. A respected name across the Moreton Bay region, we combine cutting-edge technology with first-class service. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have and offer obligation-free quotes. Phone (07) 4519 3130, email [email protected] or use this form.
