Fireproof Safe FAQs

See answers to FAQs about fireproof and security safes, cabinets and document protection.

What happens if the batteries run down or I have dead batteries on a safe with an electronic lock?

All electronic locks are designed to save your key combination through an internal memory even if the batteries run completely flat. For some safes, the batteries are accessible from the outside and are very easy to replace by following the manufacturer's instructions. Once replaced, you will be able to enter your code and unlock the safe.

Some safes however, have the battery compartment accessible via the inside of the safe. In these circumstances, the safe is often supplied with a manual override key which will allow you to open the safe to replace the batteries if they are depleted and the electronic lock is non-functional. It is a good idea to keep the override key in a secure location and not inside your safe.

How are safes fitted to the floor?

Fireproof safes that are designed / manufactured to be fitted to the floor, are supplied with holes in the bottom which are closed with plastic plugs. During installation, these plugs are removed to enable the installer to mark the floor for where the safe will be positioned. When the marks have been made, the safe can be moved and holes can be drilled and the provided plugs can be fitted. The last stage of installation is to move the safe back into place and fit the bolts provided. The bolts provided are designed for use in concrete floors, and if you have another type of flooring, you will require to purchase the appropriate bolts / screws.

Can the deed box be secured to the wall or floor?

Unfortunately, the box cannot be secured to either floor or wall as this would mean drilling through the box and therefore nullify both the fire and water protection and the warranty.

Can the fireproof boxes be secured to the floor?
Drilling through the bottom of the box, while possible, will reduce the fire and water resistance of the fireproof box. If you need to protect valuables from theft we recommend that you purchase a front opening steel fireproof safe.

Do you have a fireproof cabinet that will hold A3 size documents?

The Phoenix Fire Ranger 1512 S1 can be floor fixed and can accommodate A3 sized documents.

How do I reset my code lock to the default settings?

When you receive the safe, it will have a default user code and master code. You may however decide to change these codes for security purposes. To reset the safe back to its default settings (to use the original user and master code), you first have to remove the lock casing and press the black button on the PCB for at least 3 seconds. The green light will blink twice, followed by the green, red and yellow light turning on and then off again at the same time. Your safe will now be set back to the original codes.

If the fire safe is exposed to 950°C longer than 60 minutes, what will happen to the contents of the safe?

In the unlikely event that the fire safe is exposed to the temperature for longer than 60 minutes, the paper inside would start to char and potentially be destroyed. The internal temperature of the safe would start to rise after 60 minutes to a level where this would occur.

What does it mean by the Overnight Insurance Rating?

Overnight Insurance Ratings are typically established by insurance companies based on a number of factors including security level and testing. The rating refers to how much an insurance company is willing to cover you for the contents of the safe in the event of a burglary or fire. It is key to liaise with your insurance company to ensure that they are able to cover you for whatever you require to store within the safe.

Does bolting down affect the fire and water resistance of my safe?

The fire rating of your fireproof safe will not be affected by bolting it down if the installation is carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions. Safes that also offer protection against water are no longer water tight after bolting down.

What can I store in a fire safe?

Manufacturers of fireproof safes generally focus on three main types of products that would be stored within a safe.

  • Paper such as passports, certificates, insurance documents, deeds, and cash.
  • Digital Media such as USB / memory sticks, DVDs, CDs, digital cameras, MP3 players, and external hard drives.
  • Data / Magnetic Media such as computer back-up tapes, floppy disks, traditional internal hard drives, and video / audio tapes.

It is important to choose the correct safe according to what will be stored inside. See our fireproof safes guide for more information.

Please Note: If you require a fire proof safe to store your valuables as well as your paper documents, digital and magnetic records, please see our range of Fireproof Safes.

Will my safe require installation?
No, installation is optional unless you are required to have the safe bolted down for insurance purposes for example. In this instance we stock a wide selection of safes that can be bolted to a wall or floor. Although installation can usually be carried out by yourself, it would always be best to employ a professional installation engineer to ensure security and ensure that you have met your insurers requirements.
Can I change the electronic lock combination myself?

Yes, full instructions on how to change the key code will be in your safe manual. Changing your combination differs from model to model If you no longer have your manual or require any assistance then please contact us for further information.

Can safes be bolted down?

Some safes can be bolted down and fixed to either the floor or a wall. To help you chose the right safe we have included this information in the product description for all our safes. Those that do offer this option will usually be pre-drilled, or supplied with instructions for drilling, and a fixing kit for a professional to carry out the installation.

Are there any additional charges for delivering a fireproof filing cabinet to an upper floor?

Yes, there are additional costs to deliver a safe to an upper floor via steps. Our Free Delivery includes the delivery of the safe to your door, only. This applies to any UK mainland location.

If you require the safe to be transported to different floor levels via stairs, please contact us for a quote on 0800 612 6537 or e-mail us on support@safelincs.co.uk

What is a cash rating on a safe and how is it determined?

The cash rating of a safe is the amount of cash for which an insurance company will offer overnight insurance cover. Different insurers may vary their levels of cover based on other factors such as the location of the safe. Cash ratings are determined by the thickness of the door and walls, the type of lock used, and the general build quality of a safe. The higher the cash rating the more secure the safe is.

What does 'water resistance' mean?

Having a fireproof safe or box with water resistance adds protection for documents and valuables against water damage from flooding, fire-fighting hoses, burst pipes or other water hazards. Water resistance means that the safe or box will protect its contents for a specific period of time when the safe is sitting in water. Waterproof safes, in addition to their water resistance testing have also been proven to protect safe contents when submersed in water for 72 hours.

Do fireproof filing cabinets actually work?

Yes, our fireproof filing cabinets do work as long as you choose the correct type for the item(s) you wish to protect. Each type of media starts to degrade at a different temperature. Please see our fireproof safes and storage help guide for more information.

Please Note: If you require protection for cash and valuables, our range of fireproof safes are more suitable.

How do I prevent mildew build-up in my fireproof safe?

Fireproof and waterproof safes are airtight and items stored in the safe are likely to contain moisture that will cause condensation to form over time. You should regularly air your fireproof and waterproof safe or box to avoid mold or mildew build up and moisture damage.

What does ‘humidity level’ mean?

Humidity level means the amount of moisture that occurs inside the safe in the event of a fire. It is important to choose the correct safe according to the type of medium you wish to store inside to ensure that the humidity level does not affect your stored items.

How do fireproof safes work?

Fireproof safes work by releasing steam inside the safe to protect contents during a fire. The extent to which the safe is ventilated to release this build-up of steam will determine what items can be safely stored inside. Data safes should have a humidity level that does not exceed 85% for film or 80% for data.

Data or media items that are at risk in humid conditions include:

  • Floppy discs
  • Cassette or video tapes
  • Hard drives
  • Photos and film negatives
  • CDs or DVDs
  • USB drives

Fireproof and waterproof safes are airtight and items stored in the safe are likely to contain moisture that will cause condensation to form over time. They should be regularly aired out to avoid mold or mildew build up and moisture damage.