Fireproof Safe
A fireproof safe is an important asset for anyone wishing to protect important documents, cash, other valuables.
Why a fireproof safe? Should go without saying, but there are lots of safes out there that are not fireproof, for less money, but are at obvious risk if there’s a fire!
A fireproof safe (more accurately called fire resistant) is typically rated by the amount of time it can withstand the extreme temperatures of a fire, while not exceeding a given internal temperature.
For example, maintaining internal temperature less than 350°F for 30 minutes during a fire.
Fireproof safe models are typically available or fire rated for 30 minutes to as long as four hour duration’s. You will pay much more for the higher rating duration’s.
Popular fireproof safe brands include ‘Sentry Safe’, ‘First Alert’, ‘Fire King’, and ‘Phoenix Safe’ to name a few…
There are two types of fireproof safes on the market today.
– Paper documents, cash
– Data storage, computer media
UL 350 Fire Rating
For paper document storage such as cash or insurance papers, etc.
There’s more to it, but basically a Class 350 rating indicates that the internal temperature will be held below 350°F for the time period specified.
Evidently the ignition temperature of most Fiat paper currency is about 450°F.
UL 125 & UL 75
For data storage or computer media (UL 125 or UL 75 fire rating).
Paper will begin to char at 400°F and media begins to melt at 140°F.
Class 125 will hold below 125°F while class 75 will hold below 75°F. Etc.
How Long Does an Average Fire Burn
Statistically speaking, the average fire burns at around 800°F for about 20 minutes.
The UL tests for UL 125 and UL 350 are performed for 1 hour at 1,700°F.
So, it seems that a 30 minute fire rated safe may be ‘good enough’ for most fire scenarios. 1-hour rating will provide even more insurance.
PRECIOUS METALS
By the way, the melting point of gold is 1,947°F. The melting point of silver is 1,763°F. No worries there… you just need it secured in the safe!
Everybody has valuables. For storing your important documents, cash, precious metals, and more, you really should own a fireproof (fire resistant) safe.
Here’s a good one:
Fire-resistant withstands 1,550 degrees F for up to 30 minutes
Waterproof seal
Digital media protection
