A safe is a critical component of your home’s security, serving as a last line of defense against theft and unauthorized access. While safes are generally reliable and durable, it’s essential to evaluate whether your safe is still effectively protecting your valuables. Here are four key indicators that suggest it might be time to invest in a new safe.
1. Your Safe is Over 25 Years Old
If your safe has been in use for more than 25 years, it may not meet current safety standards. In Europe, safes began to be graded under a common standard around 25 years ago, moving away from varied local norms. Older safes are likely not certified and might not be covered by your insurance policy. Contact your insurer to ensure your safe meets the necessary requirements for coverage.
2. Your Safe Has Not Been Properly Tested
Many safes on the market today may have been inadequately tested or not tested at all. Proper testing is crucial as it guarantees the level of protection that a safe provides. Unlike other products, safes require real-world evaluations by skilled professionals who understand how to assess their security features. Be sure that your safe has been tested by an accredited laboratory, such as the European Certification Body (ECB•S) in Europe or Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in the United States. Safes tested by recognized bodies offer peace of mind, knowing they meet strict safety standards.
3. Your Level of Protection is Too Low
The level of protection provided by a safe is indicated by its grade. Under EN standards, safes are graded from zero (0) to seven (VII), with higher grades signifying greater resistance to unauthorized access. This grading is especially important for insurance purposes, as the value of the contents inside a safe is only covered appropriately if the safe has the correct grade. Each country may have different values associated with these grades, so it’s essential to consult with your local safe supplier or insurance provider for accurate information. Ensure that your safe displays an official certification label indicating its grade.
4. Your Needs Have Changed
Consider how your storage needs have evolved. For example, if you now store important documents securely online, you may not require a large, bulky safe occupying valuable space in your home. Modern safes are available in compact designs that still offer excellent levels of protection. Thanks to innovative materials that are both lightweight and strong, newer safes can provide robust security without taking up much room. Additionally, recent designs are more aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic, making them a better fit for contemporary home environments.
If you’re unsure about which safe best meets your current needs, do contact us & our team of proffessionals are more then glad to serve you….
Also do check out our articles for more in depth knowledge
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