Worried about your pets getting trapped in a fire? Startup Rescue Retriever is here at CES with an innovative solution: a smart dog collar that connects to your smoke detector and activates if the detector senses a fire.
When activated by a connected Rescue Retriever Gen 2 smoke detector, the FireTag will light up a strobe light. That light is designed to shine flames, smoke and nighttime shadows so that both owners and arriving first responders can find the now-lucky doggo in case of a fire. The detector is wireless, so you can place it nearly anywhere, depending on your pet habit's.
This home safety combination isn't the only thing Rescue Retriever thought of. The collar is designed to be chew-resistant and waterproof for daily wear, and has a built-in slot that accommodates an AirTag or similar-size tracker for app-based location tracking. Even if you don't really want to add more pet tech to your home, you can still use the fire emergency feature without any apps or even Wi-Fi.
FireTag's strobe light in action under simulated nighttime smoke. Rescue Retriever
The collar and smoke detector debut alongside other Rescue Retriever creations, including a reflective sticker that you can place on your window to alert firefighters that you have pets in your home.
I seriously like this concept as a new iteration on home security and pet safety at CES 2026, although it's currently limited to the startup's own devices. My only concern is that the strobe light may frighten some pets, but during an emergency, it may be the best option available.
This technology would likely work even better if it could integrate with commonly used smart smoke detectors, such as those from Kidde and First Alert. Adding a cat collar option may also be a good idea.
The FireTag will start shipping within the next few months, though pricing information isn't currently available.