This year’s ‘must have’ tech fad is the so-called ‘hoverboard’. It doesn’t actually hover and is essentially a two-wheeled Segway without the handlebars, but it looks like a lot of fun. However there have been quite a few scares over it’s safety and indeed, a consumer report I read indicated that nearly 9 out of 10 of them have developed faults, including bursting into flames while being charged up!

Hot on the hoverboard’s occasionally literally hot heels however, is the next ‘must have’ gadget, a flame thrower. Somewhat incredulously, I watched open-mouthed as a local KPRC2 news channel reporter explained first in detail how it was made using 15lbs of pressurised diesel fuel in a scuba tank (presumably in case anyone who couldn’t afford to buy one for $1,500 could just make their own home-made version, perish the thought). Then, dressed in flame retardant protective gear (sold separately of course), he proceeded to set fire to a large bale of hay. "What fun!", he exclaims, "I must have one for Christmas!” 

Why, you may well ask, would one even want a flame thrower? And what purpose could you usefully (or even not usefully) put one to, you may muse? Perhaps you could flambé the turkey on Christmas day to give it that just-burnt flavour? Maybe you can give your creme brûlée a quick burst of fire to crisp up the sugar coating? 

Whatever this season of joy brings you, I hope it doesn’t include anything that either bursts into flame on its own or can set fire to anything bigger than a candle! 

My best and safest wishes and Happy Holidays to you and your family.