Home safes are crucial for protecting valuables from theft or damage. Whether it is to store important documents, jewellery, or cash, a safe can provide homeowners peace of mind.

However, not all safes are built the same. When choosing a safe, there are multiple factors to consider. These include size, security features, fire and water resistance, installation requirements, and cost. 

Remember that a safe is not the ultimate answer to safeguarding your valuables. Burglars can still gain access to even some of the strongest commercially available safes with the right method and equipment. Hence, it is advised to employ additional measures to protect your safe, even when it has adequate security features.

By selecting the right safe and implementing additional security measures, you can prevent burglars from accessing the contents of your safe.

Choosing the right safe

The first step is to find a safe with a suitable size, depending on the items you plan to store. Ensure it is not too small so your valuables won’t quickly “outgrow” it. Choose a safe with adjustable shelves or drawers to optimise the space.

The most crucial aspect of any safe is its security features. Choose safes constructed with a sturdy frame, solid steel doors, and bolts at least 1 inch thick for enhanced protection. Some safes offer additional security features, such as alarms or tamper-proofing mechanisms.

If you are unsure which lock to choose, remember that electronic locks offer convenience, while traditional ones provide reliability. Key-operated locks are simple and low-maintenance but require key management. Meanwhile, digital locks are user-friendly with customisable codes but may need battery replacements.

A safe is useless if it can’t protect your valuables from fire and water hazards. Choose a safe with UL-rated fire resistance to protect your valuables from fire damage, and opt for water resistance safe if you live in an area prone to flooding. 

To keep it intact for a long time, avoid placing the safe in areas with extreme temperatures, such as the loft or garage. Do not install it in your bedroom as it will be the first place burglars check.

Lastly, match the safe you want to purchase to your budget. According to Locksmiths of London, safes typically range from less than £50 to several thousand pounds. Keep in mind that a more expensive safe doesn’t necessarily mean better quality.

Once you’ve found the right safe, consider how to install it. Some safes require bolting to the floor or wall, while others are portable. Insurers often mandate bolting safes weighing less than 750 kg to the building’s structure. It can prevent burglars from removing the entire safe from the house when other break-in methods fail.

How to secure your safe

After you buy your safe, you need to know that there are multiple ways a burglar can break into your safe.

One of the most common safe break-in methods is simply using the factory-set combination. To mitigate this, change the combination from that set by the manufacturer. This simple step can significantly deter burglars and enhance your safe’s security.

Some burglars also break into safes by drilling into the safe, mainly into or near the main lock. You can prevent this by choosing a safe with a cobalt plate between the door and the locking mechanism, which resists most drill bits. Additionally, consider equipping a relocker that automatically engages when tampering is detected.

Another method burglars use to break into safes is by prying the door open with a pry bar or other slim metal object. However, many safes today are equipped with features designed to prevent prying. You can also equip additional security features, such as anti-pry door tabs, to prevent this.

Aside from protecting your valuables from fire incidents, a fireproof safe can protect them from burglars who torch through the safe’s exterior. It is advised to get a safe with true composite wall construction, as these feature multi-layered walls, typically with a fire-resistant concrete layer sandwiched between two metal layers. This can offer superior protection against torching attempts.

A reputable security company like Marengo can provide valuable assistance in securing your home safe. They can also create customised security plans to complement your safe, such as installing a security system and employing security guards so you no longer worry about your valuables.