Abstract: A floor mat includes a housing for containing a power supply, speech module and speaker. A grid-like switching mechanism is closed upon a person stepping on the mat so as to provide an energizing current flow to the speech module. The speech module includes circuitry for recording and playing back a selected message. A slidable or releasable panel in the housing allows for selectable user access to the speech module. The housing precludes weather deterioration of the elements therein and cooperates with the switching mechanism so as to provide a user-selectable message to a person stepping on the mat. The mat/housing configuration allows alternative switching mechanisms to be used in connection with replaceable speech modules.

Abstract: A theft deterrent device (10) is provided for enclosures such as dwellings, motor vehicles and the like, having one or more entranceways. The device is adapted to be quickly and easily installed within such enclosures and is connected electrically with pre-existing electrical circuitry of the enclosure, causing the device to emit a noxious gas, upon unauthorized entry into the enclosure via one of the entranceways. The noxious gas renders the enclosure temporarily uninhabitable. The device may be activated or deactivated remotely from outside the enclosure. The device also includes other safety features to prevent accidental discharge of the noxious gas.