The fire department reports that, on average, 20 minutes elapse from the moment a fire ignites to when they can start dousing it with water. This isn’t a reflection of the fire department’s speed. Rather, it hinges on the time it takes for us to detect the fire and notify them. The process becomes even lengthier if we’re not home, relying then on neighbors or passersby to spot and report the smoke and flames. Once the firefighters are on the scene, it usually takes another 20 minutes to put the fire out. So, in total, a full 40 minutes might pass – which exceeds the fire protection time of many safes available at big box retailers.

Safes are constructed with various fireproofing materials. High-compression-rated concrete composite is commonly found in high-security burglary safes. However, be cautious: the term “composite” is now frequently used to describe all kinds of safes. This material not only enhances fire resistance but also bolsters the safe’s security. Other fireproofing substances include light compression concrete, “plaster of Paris,” various fire-resistant foams, and fireboard, which is prevalent in many gun safes. Whatever material you choose, it’s prudent to select a safe with the longest fire rating your budget allows.

No one anticipates or desires a house fire. Yet, in such dire situations, it’s always better to be overprepared by an hour than to fall short by just a minute.