How to Choose a Safe for Your Home
With hundreds of safes on the market, how do you know which one is the best choice for your needs? The perfect safe depends on what you will be using it for and the space you have available, as well as anticipated threats.
Lock Mechanism
The old fashioned type of safe uses a mechanical lock, while more modern options tend to use electronic locks. Each one has its pros and cons, which you’ll need to consider before making a selection.
Electronic locks don’t usually need any maintenance and can be more difficult to crack for a thief. However, they require a battery and if you forget to change the batteries, you could end up temporarily locked out.
Mechanical locks require maintenance on a regular basis and are slower, but they do last longer than electronic ones. Some people prefer mechanical locks because they’re more traditional, but in the end, the choice is yours.
Safe Size
What will you be storing in the safe? This determines the size you’ll need to some extent, but the space you have to put the safe will also need to be considered. Storing a hunting rifle requires more space than several documents, for example.
The size will also determine whether or not the safe is portable. Some are designed specifically to be moved, but these are also easier for thieves to steal. Larger safes will be tougher to move.
Type of Protection
Safes are designed to keep your important items and documents safe, but from what? If you worry that your items may be destroyed in a fire, for example, it’s a good idea to opt for a fireproof safe. There are some that can withstand high temperatures for hours.
If it’s theft that concerns you most, you’ll need to look at how easy the safe is to move. A 200-kilogram safe is a far more difficult to move than a smaller, portable option. A safe that is bolted into the floor or wall will also be harder to steal, but the material it is made of and the lock type will determine how difficult it is to break into.
The other type of safe is waterproof. These are designed to withstand flooding and are helpful if you live in an area prone to floods. These can also be a good option for a boat.
Which Safe to Choose
Once you’ve looked at all the options for a possible safe, consider who will install it. Some people like to install their own safes, to avoid anyone else knowing exactly where it is, but unless you have a portable option or are very handy, this can be difficult.
Opting for a company to install the safe for you ensures the task is done correctly. Depending on the type of safe you’ve selected, you will also need a locksmith to service the safe on a regular basis. It’s a good idea to have a locksmith company, like Campbell & McGovern install and service your safe for utmost security.