| Drop
safes, also known as depository safes, accept
deposits from anyone, but only persons with authorized access
can retrieve the deposits. They are ideal for businesses
that handle large amounts of cash, jewelry, or other valuables
on a daily basis. They also provide a convenient way of
handling non-returnable deposits such as payments enclosed
in envelopes. Drop safes are best for temporary storage
- they are not as secure as burglary-proof safes because
of the opening to the outside. For example, you might use
one to store cash during the day, and then move the contents
to a more secure safe or deposit it to the bank at night.
Also, again because of the opening to the outside, drop
safes are not fireproof.
Drop safes can be divided into
three different types. These types differ in the type of
opening used for the deposits. The first type uses a slot
on the front or top of the safe to accept deposits. There
is a baffle attached to this slot on the inside to prevent
someone from "fishing" the contents back out of
the safe. The second type uses a hinged hopper on the front
of the safe, much like a freestanding mailbox. This type
will also use some type of anti-fishing baffle on the inside.
The third type is the most secure. It uses a rotary hopper
mounted on the top of the safe. This hopper must be rotated
a full 180 degrees in order for the contents to be deposited.
Drop safes come with a variety
of other available features. One such feature is a secure,
dual-custody key system. This system requires two keys,
a "supervisor" key and a "guard" key,
to open the safe. Another convenient feature is an electronic
keypad locking mechanism. All the user has to do to open
the safe is enter the combination on a PIN pad, much like
using an ATM or debit card machine. These electronic locks
are also available with an audit feature, which allows authorized
persons to determine when the safe was accessed and by whom.
This information is usually displayed on a local display,
or on some models can be uploaded to a personal computer.
Drop safes are also available
with a more secure, double-door system. This type of safe
is divided into two sections - the top half for accepting
deposits and the bottom half providing more secure storage
with no opening to the outside. Drop safes are also available
in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. There are also a
variety of interior arrangements available. Some models
offer convenient storage for cash drawers. These are ideal
for a retail setting.
As you can see, there are a number of factors to consider
when choosing a depository safe. Be sure to consider the
type of depository opening, type of locking mechanism and
whether or not you could benefit from a dual-door drop safe.
Taking all of these factors into consideration will help
ensure that you choose the drop safe that is right for your
needs.
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