"Thieves Can't Steal What They Can't See"

If a thief can't see what there is to grab, they're not going to be able to grab anything. At least, that's the theory behind the fog machines now being used as a deterrent to theft. Marketed by Concept Smoke Screen - Security Smoke and Alarm Systems in the UK, they're making their way to U.S. retailers in increasing numbers.
If the system is triggered by someone breaking and entering, it will take just a minute to create a dense, nontoxic fog that completely obscured vision. CVS Corp. had installed the device at one of its drugstores in Florida, to test its efficiency. Wanting to help with the testing, I suppose, a criminally-minded type broke in, triggering the fog machine. Apparently, the would-be burglar panicked and groped his way out of the store without taking even one item. Since the system is linked to an alarm that summons the local constabulary, any break-and-enter artist trying their luck in an establishment boasting one of these pea-soupers might be well advised to follow the example of the thwarted Florida felon.
It all sounds almost too good to be true as a foil to revenue loss, but there are some worries about a possible downside. John Feretich, head of security Rainbow USA, which has installed some of the devices is worried that the local punks might hear about them and feel obliged to set them off by throwing rocks at store windows.
I don't think needing to have their insurance policy cover the cost of new window glass would be enough to stop places of business from purchasing this new form of peace-of-mind.
Think, for instance, of bank staff who would no longer have to worry about staring down the barrel of a gun pointed at them while someone demands the cash. All they would have to do is hit the floor and let the fog do the rest. They'll soon be demanding the devices at their work place, en masse.
I would imagine this is a product with a bright future.