[yanksfan09]

Sorry to hear about this, that's terrible...

as for monitered alarm systems. I had one installed a couple years ago and the few times I've set it off accidentally they've called the house within 20 seconds everytime of it going off to see if everything's okay. Maybe some companies aren't as good with the monitoring aspect but I havn't had any problems there.

It probably is best to at least put your best cards in a safe depos. box.

Anything you leave home, you should buy a serious safe like a previous person posted.

Don't go cheap on a safe, The cheap ones can be pryed open. Youtube gun safe videos (tests etc...) Get a heavy gauge steel safe with many thick locking bolts, make sure it has good fire rating etc. Get a good brand one, like Fort Knox, Browning, some others etc...

I just bought a Browning and am thrilled with it. It's like a Tank. 900lbs. Make sure the weight is very heavy because that means there's a lot of steel and it's not thin and crappy. Expect to pay probably a minium of 1500 ish for a decent gun safe. Depending on size, quality and features they can go for a lot more. Personally I'd recommend spending 2-4k+ and get a serious one. Get a dehumidifier for it. You can also put a small safe inside the big one(like a small sentry) to keep some stuff in for extra fire and water protection. Get as big of one as you have the space for. You can fill them up quick and it's always better to have more room since they'll last a lifetime.

Also, If you want it in a basement you have to consider possible flooding issues. Either from rain or burst water heater or pipes. You would at least want to elevate the safe and might want to look at how waterproof your basement is...