How to Choose a Home Safe

You've decided to invest in a home safe. But with so many shapes, sizes and features, how do you choose the right one? Here are the key things to consider.

What Size Safe Do You Need?

Start with what you'll store and how much space you have. For important documents, a small safe that fits in a closet or on a shelf may be enough. For jewelry, coin collections and other valuables, consider something larger — common sizes run from about 1 to 2 cubic feet and up. Gun safes are a category of their own.

Do You Need a Fire-Resistant Safe?

Many safes are fire-resistant, but not all. Fire safes typically use thick, insulated walls to slow heat transfer. Look for an independent fire rating that shows how long the interior stays below damaging temperatures.

Are All Safes Burglar-Resistant?

No. Some fire-resistant safes are relatively easy to pry open. If you're protecting cash or jewelry, look for a burglar-resistant safe made of heavier steel that can withstand hammers, drills and saws — and is heavy enough that it can't simply be carried away. Many quality safes offer both fire and burglary protection.

Keyed or Combination?

Keyed safes are convenient, but keys can be lost or stolen. Combination and electronic locks are generally more secure, and the combination can be changed whenever you like.

The Final Say

Small document safes can be very inexpensive, while heavy-duty safes can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. It comes down to what you're storing and the protection you need.

Need help choosing a safe, getting into one, or changing the combination? Accurate Lock & Safe provides complete safe and vault services in St. George and Southern Utah. Contact us today.