Most people have certain possessions that they do not want to lose. Whether these possessions have a high monetary value like jewelry or cash or a high sentimental value such as family heirlooms, you want to keep them safe. In 2019, there were well over half a million burglaries in residences across the U.S. The process of safeguarding valuable property from theft as well as damage can be difficult, and there are many things you need to consider when deciding where to store your valuables and how to protect them.
Storing Your Valuables at Your Home
If you would like to have your valuable items in a location where they are easily accessible to you, storing your valuables at home may be your best bet. There are a number of ways to secure your expensive property at home.
If cost is not an issue, consider installing a vault into your home. A vault is essentially an impenetrable room that is reinforced and often fireproof. Vaults are extremely difficult to break into and offer you lots of space to store your expensive items.
If you have fewer resources to invest in security, a good safe is your next best option for securing valuables. For a little extra money, you can obtain a fireproof and waterproof safe to protect your belongings from the elements.
Another option is concealing your possessions in a secret place. Some of the best places to hide valuables in your home are:
- In fake food containers in your kitchen
- In fake pipes or outlets
- In fake books
- In an old, unused vacuum
- Behind artwork
- Inside a hollow door
Keeping Valuables at a Bank
Storing your valuables in a safe deposit box at a bank will cost you some money and you won’t have 24/7 access to them, but your items will likely be far safer at a bank than they are at your home. If you have valuables that are extremely expensive or that you can not easily replace, a safe deposit box at a bank is probably your best bet. Additionally, if you are going out of town for a while, it is far safer to leave your valuables at a bank than it is to leave them in your empty, unguarded home.
Insuring Your Personal Property
Buying personal property insurance can be a great way to protect your valuable items. This type of insurance can cover the cost of replacing or repairing lost or damaged valuables in the event that something happens to them. Even if the chances of a problem are low, you are better off safe than sorry. The right insurance could potentially save you lots of money and heartache if something unexpectedly goes wrong.
Knowing your valuables are safe and secure can offer you peace of mind. Whether you purchase a home safe, a safe deposit box at a bank, or personal property insurance, you can rest easy knowing you made a good investment into better security for your valuables.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.