The Locksmith Journal Nov-Dec 2014 - Issue 35 | Page 42

PROUD SPONSORS OF THIS PAGE safelocks PLAYING IT SAFE Jeremy Cassady, Managing Director for leading physical security product supplier Securikey, explores the various factors that need to be considered when assisting your customers in choosing the correct safe for their needs. Why Does Your Customer Need A Safe? It sounds like common sense but, when it comes to safeguarding belongings, sometimes the customer’s desire to achieve maximum security regardless of requirement means they can end up with a highly overspecified product. This is where the locksmith can guide them in making the most sensible decision. First, it is important to identify what the customer needs to protect (money, important documents, jewellery, etc.) in order to assess how large the safe needs to be. What is the maximum cash value of the items that will be stored inside? Where will the safe be installed? Will the customer need to deposit items or cash quickly and discreetly, thereby requiring a top or front loading rotary drum? Will the items require fire protection? These are just a few questions that need to be considered. Does Size Matter? In practical terms – yes, size matters. If you need to store large electronic devices, A4 documents, medical supplies or other bulky items, you will need a larger safe or high security cabinet. However, it is important to know that size is not indicative of improved protection. In some instances, a smaller safe will offer a much higher level of security than a larger model. Good Value After addressing the practicalities of space, the customer then needs to work out the value of the items being stored in the safe. In many cases this will vary throughout the year, so the maximum value of the cash or items that will be stored overnight at any one point will need to be ascertained. If this requirement is met, the safe will provide sufficient protection for all possibilities. Safe manu