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How to Use a Fireproof Storage Box

Preparing for a fire is one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner or tenant. Storing your valuables and important paperwork in a safe can protect them from theft or water damage, but many home safes are not fireproof. Purchasing a fireproof storage box is a great way to keep important documents and irreplaceable items safe in the event of a fire. Many fireproof storage boxes also feature locks and airtight seals to protect the contents from other dangers.

Things You'll Need

  • Fireproof storage box
  • Important documents
  • Keys
  • Valuables
  • Photos
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a fireproof storage box from a hardware store, home improvement store or superstore. Order a fireproof box online if you do not have a store that carries fireproof boxes nearby.

    • 2

      Gather important documents to place in the box so that they are protected in case of a fire. You can replace most documents but storing copies in a fireproof box will give you less to deal with when dealing with the aftermath of a fire. Place your social security card, vehicle title, insurance policy paperwork, bank account information, credit card information, passport and wills in the box for safekeeping.

    • 3

      Consider other items you may need quickly if your home were to catch fire. Put spare car keys, spare credit cards, cash and copies of prescriptions in your fireproof box.

    • 4

      Put small valuables in your fireproof box for safekeeping if you have room left over. You can store important photos and photo negatives in your box, as well as jewelry and small items with sentimental value.

    • 5

      Keep your fireproof box in an easily accessible location so that you can get to it if you need to access your documents.

    • 6

      Give a trusted friend or family member a spare key to your fireproof box if it has a lock on it. If you leave the key inside during the fire, it may be damaged or lost.