A safe keeps your prized valuables secure and close at hand. Consider the different types of safes that are available, so you can pick one to suit your needs.
Types of home safes
There are a few different styles of home safes to choose from.
Standard home safe: The average home safe holds anything from important documents to precious heirlooms, depending on its size. They typically feature a single door, a strong lock and shelves to organize your belongings. Look for a safe that combines fire and theft prevention for added security.
Diversion safe: Diversion safes are disguised to look like inconspicuous objects such as books. They usually have a small capacity and minimal protection, so diversion safes are best for easy access of items that are not highly valuable.
Hidden safe: Unlike freestanding safes, hidden safes are embedded into your home to make them difficult to find. They come in two forms, wall safes and floor safes, and they usually require professional installation.
Specialty safes: These include luxury jewellery safes with various drawers, shelves and gun safes designed for safe storage of firearms.
Custom safe: If you have exacting requirements for a safe, you can have one designed specifically for your needs. These safes are more expensive.
Home safe features
Home safes are rated for water, fire and burglary protection. Choosing the right one depends on your needs and environment.
Fire protection: Fireproof safes are rated for how long they can withstand flames. Look for a fireproof safe that’s been independently rated.
Water protection: If your safe is likely to get wet, look for water protection. Waterproof safes can be fully submerged, while water-resistant safes can only be submerged for a limited time.
Burglary protection: Burglary protection focuses on the safe door and locking mechanism. Look for locks with numerous large bolts and a door that’s pry-resistant and made from solid steel.
Factors to consider when buying a home safe
Safes use different systems and features to keep items secure. Consider these additional factors for a safe that’s better suited to your needs.
Space: Look for a safe that matches the kinds of items you’re storing. Gun safes, for instance, come in sizes and shapes to store handguns or rifles. Money safes could be quite small whereas boxed valuables will need more space.
Lock style: Safes are usually locked with a mechanical dial, key or electronic lock. You can limit key or code access to any number of people. Mechanical dial safes are stronger and more reliable, but an electronic or digital safe is easier to use.
Finding the right home safe depends on what you’re storing and what sort of protection you require. Keep your precious belongings safe and close by with a safe that matches your needs in terms of security and accessibility.
