Industry News SMP News
History of safes
17th February 2023
A brief history of safes and how they have evolved over time.
Safes have been used for centuries to protect valuables from theft, fire, and other dangers. But how did these protective devices come about, and how have they evolved over time? Let’s rewind time and dive into a quick history of safes and how they have changed over the years.
The earliest safes
The first safes can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where valuable items like gold and jewels were protected. These early safes were often made of stone or clay, where an artisan skill was displayed and was sealed with wax or clay to keep out intruders.
Metal safes
As metalworking techniques improved, safes began to be made of metal. These early metal safes were often made of iron and secured with locks and keys. Some safes also had additional security features like combination locks or time locks, which required a specific series of numbers or actions to unlock.
Fire-resistant safes
As the dangers of fire became more apparent, safes began to be designed with fire resistance in mind. Some early fire-resistant safes were lined with asbestos which has been phased out over time because of the risks associated with it, while others used layers of metal, stones or other materials to insulate the contents from heat.
Modern safes
Today’s safes are made with a wide range of materials and feature a variety of security measures. Some safes are made of steel and have complex locking mechanisms, while others use electronic locks or biometric scanners to keep contents secure. Many modern safes also have fire-resistant or waterproof features to protect against natural disasters or other emergencies.
Future of safes
Because of advancements in technology, it’s likely that safes will continue to evolve and incorporate new security features. Some companies are already experimenting with virtual safes that use blockchain technology to securely store digital assets, while others are developing safes that use artificial intelligence to detect and prevent tampering.
In conclusion, the history of safes is long and varied, with many different designs and security measures developed over the centuries. From ancient clay and stone boxes to modern steel and electronic safes, these protective devices have come a long way in keeping our valuables safe and secure.
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