Are Fire Proof Safes Really Fireproof?

When choosing a safe, the best options are those that are fireproof. And safes made of modern metal that are strong enough to withstand heat pressure for a while.

However, are fireproof safes really fireproof?  

If we are honest, fire can devour and melt everything at the right temperature. And in time. Even if the brands display their product as fireproof, the truth is the safe is only fire-resistant for a given period.

Well, that could be a reason not to buy a safe, then? Apparently, no. Investing in a document safe is still a smart decision to secure your money and documents from a thief. And emergencies, like fire, hurricanes, floods, etc. One question though, will paper money burn in a fireproof document safe? Click that link to find out more!

You may also want to read here the best fireproof document safe in market!

SentrySafe SFW123GDC Fireproof Safe

Fireproof Safes are Fire-resistant

I did mention previously that the label “Fireproof” is not really fireproof. And that is because everything is bound to melt in a flame. But there is still an excellent reason to invest in a document safe to store your valuables.

Fireproof safes are efficient fire-resistant storage options in case of a fire breakout. In choosing a safe, ensure that the products are UL classified to verify that they can withstand fire in the said amount of time. (1)

When fireproof safes are UL classified, the product’s materials undergo several tests to resist heat. A safe that passes the UL standard can survive a fire for 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours, depending on the brand and type. If the safe fireproof rating is below those numbers, then you should hesitate to pick them.

Now, according to a statistic, an average house fire lasts for no more than 20 minutes. Especially if the responders are quick to react to the emergency. Ergo, your valuables in the safe will be well kept during a fire.

How Fire-resistant are the Fireproof Safes?

SentrySafe-SFW123GDC Fireproof SafeYou might ask, can’t the fire enter into the small space in the safe’s door?

Well, that is another consideration the gun-safe makers should examine.

Luckily, most renowned brands were able to address this concern. And that is by inventing the technology called “fire seal” on doors. What it does is that it blocks all possible entrances any flexible elements like fire, water, and moisture can use to bypass the door. (2)

Are the Fireproof Safes Waterproof as well?

In general, safes are only fireproof for an extended time. However, if you pick a safe that passes the UL standard, you will enjoy the added safeguard against water.

That only means the safe will be able to secure your valuables from fire and floods. These are the unpredictable crises we experience. So it’s better to prepare for them than regret losing everything in an instant.

Conclusion

A fireproof safe is proven as a practical storage choice to keep your valuables from fire. They are an excellent investment in the digital world we live in.

If you have suggestions or comments about this post, please leave them below.

References

(1) UL classified – https://www.thespruce.com/use-ul-listed-devices-1152506
(2) elements like fire – https://www.sc.edu/ehs/training/Fire/01_triangle.htm

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About John Fox

ebbb364ee14268bd3b77496cab3d1d78?s=90&d=mm&r=gCertifications: Certified Alarm Technician (CAT)
Education: Denver Security Academy
Lives In: Denver Colorado

John Fox has worked as a security consultant in Denver for over 20 years.
With Safe Now, he's taken those two decades of experience and decided to share it to help people online make the right security decisions for their businesses and families.

John writes security tips and guides, product recommendations, and prevention guides.

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