Installing a key-safe for your Village Hall?
11/07/2023
Installing a key safe is a great way to allow key sharing with lots of people, but it is worth considering whether a key safe is necessary in the first place.
They may not be suitable for all properties. Of course, they are a better alternative to having lots of keys cut and/or hiding keys under a plant pot. However, it's recommended that village halls consider several factors as part of their decision to have a key safe:
- who needs access to the property, and how often?
- where will the key safe need to be located and could this introduce other risks?
- who will manage key code changes?
- how will emergency services access the property?
- are there any better alternatives?
A quick guide to selecting your key safe
You’ve decided that a key safe is the right solution for you, then here are a few simple things to consider:
- Is it weather-proof?
- Is it made from metal? (Plastic ones offer little security).
- Is it accredited? ‘Police-preferred’ or ‘Secured by Design’ are the words to look out for.
- Smart key safe could enable notifications of when the key safe is accessed.
What are Police-preferred Key Safes?
The market is inundated with key sharing devices, but not all can provide the security you need. It's critical to choose a key safe that has undergone independent testing and certification and provides a proportionate level of protection against the risk of intruders gaining entry to your property.
It is recommended you select a ‘Police Preferred Key Safe’. This term, previously known as ‘Police Accredited', is one of the most respected endorsements granted to home security products effective in preventing crime. The authority that awards this title, is Secured by Design (SBD), an official police security program.
The “Police Preferred” is part of SBD’s product-focused certification scheme that aims to enhance home security rigorously. SBD evaluated and approved key safes are thoroughly tested to resist physical attacks, hence guaranteeing safe and secure key sharing.
Key safes lacking the “Police Preferred” badge may not meet the same testing standards, potentially leaving your Village Hall exposed to risks.
Where to place your Village Halls’ key safe ?
The location of your key safe installation largely depends on the type of product you’ve selected . Key safes offering high security can be placed in visible areas. However, avoid exposing key boxes, as they can quickly become easy targets .
It's crucial to consider the individuals who will access the key safe. Avoid positioning it at high levels or behind bulky objects like bins, so no one has to take unnecessary risks while accessing the key to the building.
Placing the key safe at a suitable height - like chest level or within reach of a wheelchair - and in an area with ample natural light, simplifies usage and allows access to change the code. Also, installing the key safe in clear sight, makes harder for potential thieves to hide while attempting to break in.
If you have any concerns about installing your key safe, you can always bring in a contractor to fit it.
Setting and Changing your Key Safe Code?
A key safe is typically purchased without a pre-set code , so it will need to be set with a new code once installed. The duty of setting and managing the code should fall to either the key safe owner or a designated person. As part of the security measures, it's important that:
- You should avoid selecting memorable dates such as '1066' as they can be easily predicted.
- If possible, set a code with a minimum of 6 digits.
- The code is not shared more widely than is necessary.
- Maintain a record of your code in a secure location is beneficial should you ever forget it.
- The guidelines set by Norfolk & Suffolk Police, recommended the code is changed every time a code holder stops their association with you. It's crucial to remind yourself to update all authorised individuals or organisations each time the code is modified.
