This Alarm Clock May Cause Drowsiness

Everybody knows an alarm clock is supposed to wake you up--here is one that will also put you to sleep. Westclox describes its new Dreamscape as both alarm clock and sleep machine that “transports consumers to another place with soothing, natural sounds.” To do that, it offers three themes:

* “Country” features the sound of crickets chirping to fall asleep and a rooster’s crow to awaken.

* “Seaside” relaxes with the sound of rolling ocean waves and wakes with a distant, sonorous foghorn.

* “Rain forest” offers gentle rainfall for sleeping and a bird’s song to greet the morning.

Although alarm clocks have long featured alternatives to the rude buzzer, Westclox believes it has a first. The company wanted to jump on the bandwagon of home products aimed at providing relaxation and tranquillity, said Dana Osleeb, marketing analyst for General Time Corp., which manufacturers Westclox. “These products are aimed at people who are stressed with work, have no time for vacations and are trying to create tranquillity in their homes.”

Suggested retail price is $39.99 for the clock, which is just arriving in stores or may be ordered from (800) 444-0972.