If you only have a few valuables to store, though, it may be safer and cheaper to keep them in your safe deposit box. But if you need more storage space, a safe is probably the best bet.

Most safes are fire-resistant, but not fireproof. The Underwriters Laboratory grades fire-resistant safes based on how long the safes protect paper at a certain temperature and for how long. Class-C safes protect paper for an hour at 1,700-degrees Fahrenheit, class-B for two hours at 1,850-degrees, and class-A for four hours at 2,000-degrees. If you need to protect computer disks in a fire, you will need to purchase a specialized home safe.

If you keep money in your home, you could invest in a money chest. Money chests are smaller than most safes, but are built in your house or bolted to your home’s frame. Money chests rated TL can withstand tools, TR torches, and TX explosives. The TL rating includes a number that indicates how many minutes the safe can withstand tools.

A combination safe contains a money chest in side a regular fire-resistant home safe, but can be attached to your home like a money chest.

You can visit a home security store or browse the Internet to find a home safe perfect for you. Online wholesalers may charge less than other stores, and you may still pay less, including shipping costs. If you do buy online for a cheaper price, try to find a model so that you can see it for yourself. You will be protecting your most important belongings in it.