Rockford inventor creates device to prevent disaster and save lives

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) – A Rockford inventor says his new product will save lives.

“It’s a new device that helps people locate these issues before they even happen,” said Develt Clay.

Those issues are smoke, fire and security breaches.

Clay, 60, says the device he invented more than three years ago is a high-level alarm system that prevents disaster.

“Wherever, not matter you’re at—you can be having lunch, and it will help you out and let you know what to do.”

Clay said he cannot divulge too much about how the system works because of confidentiality agreements. But he says it will connect to electronic devices in a home or business and alert occupants when something isn’t right. He said unlike other alarms that sound after something like a fire starts or carbon monoxide begins to leak, his system sends a message beforehand.

“I think it will save a lot of lives,” he said. “I really do.”

The system will also include a burglar alarm component, Clay said.

Clay is currently working with an inventions company on a prototype. He says once it passes quality control, it will be mass-produced and sold in more than 150 retail stores. 

“It’s going to educate on the seriousness of security, pertaining to protecting our homes, businesses and, most of all, families,” he said.

Life reformed

Clay’s road to success started with several brushes with the law. While serving 19 years in prison for various drug offenses, he earned a college degree, a host of micro credentials and became pastor, author and motivational speaker.

“When I went to prison, I made a decision that I wanted more for my life,” he said. “And [it is] one of the reasons why I go to schools, and I talk to the teens. And I am getting back on the roster to talk to the prisons to let them know that there is hope out here.”

Clay says while it’s more sophisticated than many of the other alarms on the market that cost thousands of dollars or more, his system will be priced for average homeowners, who he says often cannot afford to keep their families safe.

“The most important ones are the ones who can’t get it and need the protection,” he said.

Clay also has a clothing line that’s currently in development. He hasn’t landed on retail price for this alarm yet, but hopes to have it in stores later this year.