A $99 Nightlight That Tells You When Your House Is on Fire

Smoke detectors are one of those essential household appliances whose faults you can overlook. They may go off at the slightest cooking provocation, but they have the potential to save your life and your stuff—as long as you’re home to hear them. If you’re out, all the beeping in the world won’t do a bit of good. That’s where Leeo comes in. It’s a sensor-laden nightlight that listens for when your smoke and carbon-monoxide detector sounds, then calls your smartphone to let you know that your home might be ablaze.

The advantage to Leeo is that it uses existing technology: your old smoke-and-CO detectors, mobile phone, and electrical socket. All you need do is plug it into the wall, download the app to your phone, and sync the devices. If Leeo “hears” an alarm from a smoke detector (detectors have a common frequency range), it will send a push message and call you. After you pick up, you’ll have the option to play an audio file of what the nightlight heard and then contact local emergency services. If you’re unable to answer the phone, Leeo will reach out to people from your prioritized list of buddies—family, friends, and neighbors—who can act in your stead. (The app provides an easy way to add and edit that directory.)