Even the safe haven of your home is susceptible to burglary. With crime a constant concern for many home and business owners, it’s time to consider purchasing a high security safe. If vandals ever break into your home, having your cash, jewelry, family heirlooms and other valuables safely within the confines of a safe can certainly give you peace of mind. Burglary safes can be found in a multitude of sizes, weights and materials to provide maximum security and protection for your possessions. Look at the details of the safe before buying, including the materials, thickness of the walls and door and its ease of accessibility. There are several things that you should consider before buying a safe.
Solid Steel Walls and Doors
Not all burglary safes are created the same. In fact, a safe that is too small or light can be easily stolen from your home or punctured by the burglar to retrieve the items within. Opt for a safe that has a solid steel door and walls of a substantial thickness. In most cases, a steel door of at least ½” inch and a body with ¼” inch walls is suitable for the average homeowner. Ensure that the safe is made primarily of steel and does not use other filler materials for optimal protection.
Heavy Safes are Better Safes
In most cases, the heavier the safe, the better the quality. This is because heavier safes are made from thick steel and will weigh substantially more than safes made from other materials. Some manufacturers will try to cut down on costs by combining drywall panels with sheet metal. However, these materials do not provide sufficient protection in the event of a burglary. Solid steel is always your better option when looking for a high quality safe that will keep intruders away from your valuables.
Hidden but Accessible Location
Consider where the safe will be located before you buy. Since safes can be large and heavy, you’ll want a space that can easily accommodate the extra weight. To avoid the interest of thieves, do not leave the safe out in the open. While concealed safes within a wall can ward off burglars, these safes are typically more fire prone. Select a location that is easily accessible while still stored in a subtle location. In the event of a burglary, a quality safe will continue to keep your possessions safely inside.