When we think about securing the valuables in our home, we often consider those items of cash value to someone else. But what about those items that have less tangible value, but their loss would prove irreplaceable?
We’re talking things like family heirlooms, important documents, photos and digital data.
You may have put a lot of effort into protecting the former – with proper locks, home security system, and even a monitored alarm – but not have put the same thought into how to ensure the safety of your most precious items.
Our insurance policies will replace many of our possessions in the event of fire or theft . But some things are impossible to replace or are a major hassle to replicate.
A home safe can be an important addition to your home’s security. While no protection method is 100% secure, a properly installed, high-quality home safe provides an extra level of protection not achieved through locks and alarms.
What you should store in a home safe
What you store in your safe depends on you and your family’s needs and situation, but we’ve included a few things you should consider storing in a quality home safe.
- Titles, contracts and mortgage papers – your bank should also hold a copy of these documents, you’ll want to know where they are and have access to them quickly.
- Insurance policies – we always hope our home stays safe, the reality is, living in Australia means our homes are at risk of nature’s worst weather – from fire to flood and strong winds. By storing your insurance policies in your safe, you’ll know where they are should the worst happen, and will be able to start the repair process as soon as possible.
- Passports, birth, death and marriage certificates – you might not need these documents that frequently when you do need them, you really need them.
- Wills – having a copy of your Will at home allows your executor or beneficiary to get access and carry out your wishes sooner.
- Jewellery and small heirlooms – did Aunt Margery leave you a gorgeous ring, but it’s just a little too big for everyday wear? Or perhaps you’re holding onto your Grandfather’s matchbox card collection to pass on to your son. These items can be kept in a safe, ensuring they’re available when you need them, but safely out of reach from thieves.
- Spare keys – with the recent spate of car thefts across Melbourne, it’s essential that you keep your spare car keys somewhere secure. And if you have a bank safe deposit box for more valuable possessions, keep the keys to it securely locked away in your safe at home.
- Digital backups – have you considered recently how much valuable information you have stored on your computer and electronics? While you may be diligently backing up this data, if you’re keeping your external hard drive in the same place you keep your computer, it’s not really all that secure. Add ‘backup computer’ to your calendar, then store the hard drive in your safe between use.
How to choose a home safe
When it comes to choosing a home safe, the most important thing to remember is that your contents are only as secure as what you’re storing them inside. A poor quality home safe won’t provide that much protection, whether in the event of a fire, flood or burglary.
When choosing your safe, first consider what you want to store. This will determine the size you’ll need, and potentially the location of where you’ll keep it. We also suggest getting a safe slightly larger than you think you’ll need. Invariably, as time goes on you’ll want to add to the items you’re securing in your safe, so you’ll want that room to grow.
You can position your safe inside a cupboard, wardrobe or in a spare room. While elaborate false walls and moving pictures make the movies that much more exciting, it’s probably unnecessary to go to that much trouble with your home safe. Just ensure it’s not in clear view and is bolted to the floor or wall to make shifting it that much harder.
You can choose from a digital combination or dial lock. With a digital combination, you’ll be able to change the code yourself; whereas you’ll need a locksmith to change the combination of a dial lock. Your most important consideration should be ease of use – if it’s simple to open, you’re more likely to use it.
If you’re considering a home safe to protect your valuables, give Amalgamated Locksmiths a call. We supply and install a range of range of digital, electronic and combination safes, and can help you select the right safe for your security needs.
