It would be easy to be snide about this Kidsmart Vocal Smoke Detector if it weren’t for the fact that I have a sneaking suspicion it might actually save a life or two at some point. Which is really rather neat. $69.95.

‘This is the only smoke alarm that allows you to record a wake-up command for your child, such as “Sally! Wake up!” in your own voice. In tests to date, the familiar voice alarm has proven effective at awakening sleeping children ages 1 to 14. Parents can also record personalized escape instructions that can be customized for any household or child.’