A safe, like any device, can fail or be damaged if it is used in a way that does not comply with the manufacturer's recommendations. Inadequate maintenance or attempts to open it in an emergency if the code is forgotten can cause material damage and incur additional costs. So if you own a safe, or are considering buying one, read on to find out how to look after it so that it will last you for many years.
When you buy a certified product, you don't have to worry about it breaking down. To make sure your safe lasts for many years, follow a few guidelines regarding the installation, operation and maintenance of the lock, bolts and hinges, or the type of items stored in the safe. The latter is also important as not every type of safe is suitable for storing magnetic data media or dangerous substances, for example. Incorrect use of the safe can result in costly mistakes. So do not use oils or other substances to lubricate the locking mechanisms or bolts. To clean the safe, both inside and out, it is best to use a soft, damp cloth and mild detergents. Strong chemicals are definitely not suitable and may damage the paintwork. For more stubborn dirt, you can use extraction gasoline.
The locking mechanism should be given special attention. It is most exposed to the accumulation of dirt, mechanical damage, corrosion and the effects of various external factors such as temperature changes. Therefore, regardless of whether access is provided by a key, cipher or biometrics, it is worth remembering about regular maintenance. However, it should be remembered that the safe should be cared for by professionals who specialise in the inspection, maintenance and repair of armoured safes, vault doors and other property security devices. Servicing by appropriate technicians, usually working for the manufacturer, will ensure that the guarantee is maintained and the safe is fully operational also in the post-warranty period.
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What if you forget the code to your combination lock or lose your key? If the battery in your electronic lock runs out? Or if the lock fails or suffers mechanical damage? Sometimes it's enough to follow the instruction manual, but if that doesn't solve the problem, you may need to open the safe in an emergency. How can this be done? Certainly not with the help of a random locksmith or homemade methods, even if we have seen them in a crime film or an instructional video on social media. Why? Both because of the risk of a more serious malfunction or destruction of the contents, and for reasons of wider security. It is important to remember that passing on knowledge of the safe to outsiders is fraught with great and unnecessary risk.
Emergency opening of safes is also often the only solution in a situation when we receive a safe with an inheritance or after buying the premises, and the previous owner did not leave the code. Thanks to proven methods we will be able to access its contents without the risk of damaging valuables, documents and other valuable items deposited in it.
The help of specialised service technicians will also be necessary if the safe suffers an attempted break-in, survives a fire or any other event that may damage its construction. In one of these cases, you have to reckon with the fact that the safe may no longer guarantee optimal security and will need to be replaced. Ask the manufacturer about renting a replacement safe until the final safe is delivered.
Remember that only by using your safe correctly are you entitled to care under the guarantee. This will not apply if the safe is used inappropriately, not in accordance with accepted security procedures, if it is incorrectly installed or deliberately damaged. When buying a safe, it's a good idea to find out which faults are repaired under the guarantee agreement, and which will incur an additional charge. This will avoid unpleasant surprises and excessive strain on your budget in the event of a breakdown or emergency.
