Collection: In Case of Emergency Break Glass Gifts

Novelty items sealed inside a small glass or acrylic case, usually with a miniature hammer, containing something humorous like a cigarette, a note, cash, or a condom. The joke is the format, so almost anything small becomes funnier behind glass.

Most are designed to be broken once, which is part of the appeal. Some use a hinged or reusable case so the recipient can refill it, and product descriptions specify which type.

They work particularly well for 30th, 40th and 50th birthdays, where the joke can reference the occasion. Pair one with a genuine gift so the birthday isn't treated entirely as a punchline.

Cash, a note, sweets, a small keepsake, or the classic emergency cigarette. Refillable versions let you personalise the contents, which usually lands better than an off-the-shelf filling.

Most modern versions use acrylic or scored safety glass rather than sharp-shattering glass. Check the material before giving one to a child, and follow the included instructions for opening.