How Joplin tornadoes inspired two entrepreneurs

By Celeste Smith, The Charlotte Observer

A deadly tornado outbreak inspired two Charlotte-area entrepreneurs to create an Internet-connected home alarm system that warns of bad weather — and can also tell you if you left the refrigerator door open. It’s the Halo, developed by Ben Stagg, 36, and Chad White, 43, through their company, Halo Smart Labs. When activated, the LED lights go on, creating a halo on the ceiling.

In addition to voicing smoke, fire and carbon monoxide warnings, an upgraded version of the device includes a radio chip that rebroadcasts weather alerts. And it’s all connected to the Internet, so homeowners can receive the warnings on a smart device, and Halos in the same home can talk to each other.