Two Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Fireproof Safe

Security remains a top concern for most homeowners and this extends to more than just keeping your loved ones safe. While material items may be inconsequential to some, it may mean the difference between having a fallback or not for other people. Thus, in case you have expensive items, cash or even sensitive documents in your home, you could be looking for the best way to keep them protected from both burglars and the elements.

And if you live in a part of Australia that contends with the occasional bush fire, a fireproof safe is your best bet. Nonetheless, purchasing this type of safe should not simply be about finding one that fits within your budget. Instead, to ensure maximum security, several considerations need to be had in mind. Here are just two main factors to take into account when shopping for a safe.

1. Fire rating

Many buyers assume that because a safe is classified as fireproof then it automatically means that it will offer them the degree of protection that they expect. While fireproof safes are designed to safeguard your valuables from burning, they are not complexly immune to eventual degradation. Secondly, depending on the rating, some safes will offer a higher degree of protection than others.

So how do you know which to pick? Examine the fire rating. This is measured as UL and the numbers it comprises specifies the amount of protection to expect. Generally speaking, the numbers will describe the amount of time the safe will remain intact when exposed to a definitive temperature. Consulting with your locksmith on which UL rating would be best depending on whether you be storing documents, jewellery, cash and so on in your safe.

2. Waterproof rating

Many buyers also discount the importance of a waterproof rating for their fireproof safe. Granted, you are purchasing a fireproof safe to keep your valuables protected from burning. Nonetheless, you should also consider the threat of irreparable water damage. In the unfortunate event that your residence experiences flooding due to a pipe burst, the non-waterproof safe would be useless in protecting your belongings.

In the event of a fire, water also one of the top resources to put it out. Hence, while the valuables will remain intact during the fire, the water will end up damaging them. It is worth noting that not all fireproof safes have a waterproof rating too. Therefore, it will be up to you to carry out the due diligence to ensure your final choice has both these ratings. 

For more information, contact safe companies.