Buying a new safe? Read our guide.

A safe can become an integral part of your home or office security if you know what to look for. This user-friendly guide will tell you all you need to know before you buy.

Features

We all know that safes are designed to keep your valuables safe and secure. No surprise there. But there are certain features we recommend you look out for before you buy. Here they are.

Automatic Door Opening

Very handy, this. Once you've entered your PIN code, motorised locking bolts automatically open the door. Ideal when your hands so full of diamonds, you can't open it yourself.

Back-up Keys

These are worth having in case you forget your entry code, or if the batteries are fitted from inside so that you can change the batteries.

Door Pocket

These are great for holding passports and other smaller bits and pieces, and are usually built into the door so they don't take up internal space.

Movement Alarm

The instant someone tries to tamper with the safe, a loud siren goes off. Just the thing to deter a potential thief.

Key Hooks

Found on the back of the door, you can hang several sets of keys off these so they're easily accessible whenever you need them.

Light

Don't waste time fumbling about in the dark. Get a safe with an internal light.

Lockable Compartment

If you've got high-value items you'd prefer to store separate from your more general items and paperwork, these are ideal.

Water Resistant

Water-resistant safes are designed to protect against fire, fire hoses, sprinkler systems or even flooding. How's that for peace of mind?

Shelves

Height-adjustable shelving can help you keep everything organised. You can also remove them if you want to free-up space.

Protective Lining

If you're storing watches, jewellery or other delicate items, carpet or felt lining gives added protection from small scratches. You can get single carpet base lining, but some are fully felt lined, such as the Yale Certified Safe Home.

Slam-shut Locking

All you need to do to lock these safes is close the door. No PIN codes, turning keys or door handles. You simply close the door. No need to worry about ever leaving the safe unlocked.

Drawers

If you've got important, delicate or particularly small items you want to keep separate from everything else, these are useful. They're often lockable too for extra security.