Before you buy a safe, the first determination should be SIZE. Safes are built to sizes that are only “standard” with the manufacturer and will vary quite a bit with each manufacturer. It is best to measure a few of the larger items you wish to keep within a protective housing. In particular, note the largest item and all three of its dimensions. This is true whether you decide to purchase a fire or burglar safe, (more on this choice later). Always plan on at least 25% more space than you will presently need. This is for two very good reasons; first you may have forgotten some items, or you may acquire more, and secondly a 25% larger safe is not going to cost 25% more. Before you determine the exact Interior size, you will need to find out what sizes exist.
Safes are also built to meet certain fixed standards of either fire or burglar resistance. Non-negotiable paper documents and records can safely be housed in a fire resistive safe; however, if the items are primarily valuables of the type that are burglary “target Items” then a burglar resistive safe should be the choice.
Click here for help with determining which standard of resistance is better for you.
