Understanding Fire Ratings for Safes: What They Really Mean
At Mike Ward’s Liberty Safes, one of the most common questions we hear is: “What does this fire rating actually mean?” The truth is, not all fire ratings are created equal, and understanding the difference can help you make a smarter, safer investment when protecting the things you’ve worked hard for.
Why Fire Ratings Aren’t All the Same
Unlike some other safety features, there is no universal fire rating system for safes. Each manufacturer may test their safes differently—or not at all. Some use independent labs like UL (Underwriters Laboratories), while others rely on in-house testing with no third-party oversight. That’s why it’s so important to choose a brand—and a dealer—you can trust.
At Mike Ward’s Liberty Safes in Baton Rouge, we only carry brands that are tested, trusted, and true.
Types of Fire Testing You’ll See in the Safe Industry
Let’s break down the most common types of fire ratings and how they’re determined:
UL-Rated Fire Testing
-
UL 72 fire tests are considered the gold standard.
-
These tests measure performance in extreme temperatures and conditions, including fire endurance, explosion hazards, and impact tests.
-
UL testing is done by a third party and ensures reliable, standardized protection.
Manufacturer In-House Testing
-
Some safe manufacturers perform their own testing.
-
This type of testing can vary significantly in method and accuracy, and results are not always verifiable.
-
Always ask for proof or documentation if the safe doesn’t carry a UL or equivalent independent rating.
Time and Temperature Ratings
You’ll often see safes labeled like:
-
60 minutes at 1,200°F
-
90 minutes at 1,680°F
-
120 minutes at 1,800°F
These ratings describe how long the interior of the safe stays below a damaging temperature. But unless it’s tested by a recognized lab, these ratings can be more of a marketing term than a guarantee.
Why Trusted Brands Matter More Than Just a Fire Label
At Mike Ward’s Liberty Safes, we stock only the most reputable, long-standing safe manufacturers, because these companies don't slap a rating on a safe without backing it up with real testing. Our featured brands include:
-
🔐 Liberty Safe – Made in the USA, renowned for rigorous fire and security testing.
-
🦅 Browning Safes – Industry innovators with UL-rated models and advanced interiors.
-
🏛️ Fort Knox Vaults – Built-to-order protection with thick steel and unmatched fire endurance.
-
💼 American Security (AMSEC) – Commercial-grade builds trusted by banks and businesses alike.
These companies have been around for decades, and they design their safes to perform under real-world conditions—not just in controlled labs.
What to Look for When Choosing a Fire-Rated Safe
When you're shopping for a safe at our Baton Rouge location, here are some expert tips to guide your decision:
✔ Stick with reputable brands like Liberty, Browning, Fort Knox, and AMSEC
✔ Look for third-party fire ratings (especially UL 72)
✔ Aim for at least 60 minutes at 1,200°F or more
✔ Ask about interior construction, including fireboard layers, seals, and insulation
✔ Avoid vague or unverifiable fire claims
Protect What You’ve Worked Hard For
At Mike Ward’s Liberty Safes, we believe in real protection, not marketing fluff. Whether you’re storing important documents, family heirlooms, jewelry, or your favorite pew-pews—we’ll help you find a safe that stands up to fire, theft, and time.
📍 Visit us at 12485 Airline Highway in Baton Rouge
📞 Call 225-448-3234 for expert guidance today
We don’t just sell safes—we protect legacies.