Security Insights
Fascinating facts about safes, security, and protection. Expert knowledge to help you secure what matters in Zimbabwe.
Did You Know?
Surprising insights about safes that could save your valuables.
The First Safe Was Made in 1835
The first fireproof safe was invented by Charles Chubb in England. It could withstand temperatures up to 1,000°F.
Modern Shellmate safes can withstand Zimbabwe house fires (approx 1,700°F) for 2+ hours.
Digital Locks Are 99.9% Accurate
Modern digital locks with fingerprint scanners have a false acceptance rate of less than 0.001%.
We recommend registering two different fingers in case of injury.
Most Burglaries Last Only 8-12 Minutes
Professional burglars spend an average of 8-12 minutes in a home. A bolted safe consumes too much of this time.
Bolting your safe to a concrete floor in Harare is the #1 deterrent against theft.
Change Your Safe Code Every 6 Months
Security experts recommend changing digital safe codes every 6 months to prevent keypad wear patterns.
Avoid using birth years (e.g., 1980) or repeating numbers (1111).
Bank Vaults Use Time-Delay Locks
Bank vault doors have time-delay mechanisms that prevent opening for a preset period, even with the correct code.
Shellmate offers residential digital locks with this same time-delay feature.
Digital Locks Can Send Alerts
High-end digital locks can integrate with alarm systems to notify you of unauthorized attempts.
Ask us about IoT-enabled safes available for installation in Zimbabwe.
Floor Safes Are Hardest to Remove
A properly installed floor safe set in concrete requires jackhammers and hours of noise to remove.
Ideal for new home constructions in Borrowdale and Highlands.
Humidity Damages Documents
High humidity inside safes can cause paper rot. Zimbabwe's rainy season can spike indoor humidity.
Always use Silica Gel packets inside your safe to absorb moisture.
The Largest Bank Vault Weighs 90 Tons
The vault door at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland weighs 90 tons and is 9 feet tall.
While we don't build 90-ton doors, our Class 3 Strongroom doors are the toughest in Zimbabwe.
Dual Control Systems
Advanced locks require two people with separate codes to open, preventing "inside jobs."
Essential for businesses in Harare handling large amounts of daily cash.
Fire Spreads Faster Than You Think
House fires can reach 1,100°F in just 3-5 minutes. Fireproof safes are your only defense.
Ensure your safe has a certified fire rating, not just a steel box.
Test Your Safe Monthly
Regular testing ensures locking bolts move freely and batteries are charged.
Set a phone reminder to open your safe on the 1st of every month.
Essential Safety Guide
Critical best practices for every safe owner in Zimbabwe.
Location Matters
HighInstall your safe in a discreet location, like inside a wardrobe or bolted to a concrete floor, away from direct view of windows.
Anchor Properly
CriticalA safe that isn't bolted down is just a heavy suitcase. We use chemical anchors for Zimbabwe concrete standards.
Multiple Access Methods
MediumAlways keep the emergency backup key in a separate location (not inside the safe!) or at a trusted relative's house.
Regular Maintenance
MediumDigital locks need fresh alkaline batteries annually. Do not use rechargeable batteries as their voltage drops too fast.
9 Min
Avg. Burglary Time
1,700°F
Max Fire Temp
99.9%
Lock Reliability
100%
Peace of Mind
Knowledge is Security
Now that you know the facts, take the next step to secure your home or business.