What safe should I buy for home documents and valuables?
Safes · Answered by Lightning Lock & Key, Truckee–Tahoe’s locksmith since 1996.
The short answer
Decide fire vs. burglary vs. both (they're different ratings), buy one size larger than today's pile needs, and plan for anchoring — an unanchored safe is a carrying case.
The full picture
For paper and photos, fire rating first; for valuables, steel and bolt work matter. We sell, deliver and anchor — and we'll talk you out of the too-small one.
Every situation has its wrinkles — a two-minute call gets you a straight answer for yours, and phone estimates are always free: (530) 308-6643.
Related questions
People also ask
I forgot my safe combination — is it ruined?
Usually not. Professional opening typically preserves the safe, and afterward we change the combination so it opens for you again. Full answer →
My safe's electronic keypad is dead — is everything stuck inside?
No — dead keypads are among our most common safe calls. There are proper ways in, and the lock usually gets repaired or replaced after so the safe ends up better than before. Full answer →
Is a 'gun safe' actually a safe?
Most residential gun safes carry the entry-level RSC burglary rating — real but modest protection against short hand-tool attack. Full answer →
Straight answers from the Truckee–Tahoe locksmith — since 1996.
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“Lightning Lock & Key provided excellent service from start to finish. Dean was great to work with — patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive. …I was scheduled for the very next day, and Dean arrived on time, communicated clearly throughout the process, and walked me through what needed to be done. …If you’re looking for a reliable, knowledgeable locksmith in the Tahoe/Truckee area, I highly recommend Lightning Lock & Key.”
“Dean is my go-to for lock and lock-related issues. He is prompt, responsive and an all-around wonderful locksmith and has been for many years of service!”
“Dean was super-knowledgeable and helped us when we were locked out. Hope to never need again but would definitely recommend Lightning to others.”
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