Needing Information About Data Protection

We have some sensitive files at work that we are concerned about falling into the wrong hands. We need some high quality data protection methods. I have tried looking on the internet but continue to merely just find pages referring to laws in the European Union or enterprise level solutions beyond what our current needs are. Has anyone had in experience with encrypting data or successfully storing it in a secure manner? Any comments would be much appreciated. On a completely different note, has anyone ever been able to find an exterminator who will show up on time? Inquiring minds want to know.