Has anyone tried using laser tripwires? You wouldn't have to keep re-setting them. You're right, though, it wouldn't be any help to anybody who's out there in the wilds... But maybe they'd be useful to make a proximity alarm for the town, if it's needed? [Hmmmm.

Elle laughs at the story, even though she's a bit confused by it. The basics are understandable enough to make it funny.] It turned into his hat? Jeez, that's a pretty talented critter. And rude.