How to choose a home safe: size, rating and lock type
A safe only helps if it matches what you are protecting. These are the choices that matter before you buy.
Decide what you are protecting
- Documents, passports and hard drives need fire and heat protection.
- Cash, jewellery and small valuables need burglary resistance.
- Firearms need a purpose-built gun safe and secure storage.
- Many safes combine fire and burglary protection, but the ratings differ, so check both.
Fire rating and burglary rating
- A fire rating tells you how long the contents stay below a safe temperature in a fire.
- A burglary rating tells you how well the safe resists attack with tools.
- Ask for the rating on the label or the product sheet, not just the marketing description.
Size and weight
- Buy bigger than you think: safes fill up quickly.
- Heavy safes are harder to carry away, and smaller safes should be bolted down.
- Check the doorway, stairs and floor before delivery.
Lock type
- Electronic keypad: quick access, needs batteries.
- Mechanical dial: no batteries, slower to open.
- Key lock: simple, but the key must be stored safely.
- Biometric: convenient, check the quality and battery backup.
How we help
- We sell, deliver and set up safes, including Sentry Safe and USCAN models, and we open and repair safes.
- Tell us what you want to protect and we will suggest a size and rating.
Need a locksmith now?
Call 604-734-7233 for a price range and arrival window.