Key Safes - What should you consider when buying one

Dear Resident,

Lots of people across the Humberside Force area have key safes or are considering buying one, either for themselves or for relatives, so I wanted to send out a message highlighting what you should consider when buying a key safe and fitting it.

A key safe is a smart move for several reasons

Most key safes are attacked by forcing them off the wall, the offender then uses tools to force the key safe open and thus gaining access to the key.

Please note that not all key safes are built to the same standards, so we always recommend you should buy a Secured by Design approved key safe, as they have been tested to a high standard to ensure they provide the required protection for your keys - Product Category Search

If you buy a key safe that is not Secured by Design approved, ensure that it is robust and will withstand an attack, also that it has suitable fittings to attach it securely to the wall. 

When you fit a key safe, you are in essence advertising that a key to your property is stored within it, so it is important to consider where you fit it and what you fit it too.

The key safe should be fitted to solid brick or concrete, rather than timber fences or cladding, this will make it more difficult to remove. 

I regularly see key safes that are fitted right outside the door that the key opens, this is not recommended. Locations where the key safe cannot be easily seen or found should be considered. Just ensure that those you trust with access, or who may be contacted in an emergency are aware of the location and the PIN.

If you think that someone you don't trust may have found out your PIN, ensure it is changed, the instructions supplied with the key safe will explain how that is done. We do recommend changing the PIN on a regular basis in any case.

We also recommend that you check with your home insurance, as they may only cover certain makes/standards of key safe, and may require that the key safe be fitted by a professional to ensure the insurance cover remains.

I hope this information helps if you are considering a key safe, or currently have one fitted. 

Feel free to share this message or post on social media. Further crime prevention advice is available on the Secured by Design website.

Regards

Jamie

Crime Reduction

Humberside Police