Over the holidays, I was out with family and reached in my purse for my camera. I couldn’t locate it by rooting around, and had to set it down and look inside to find it. How dependent we are on being able to see! Some time later, my husband couldn’t find a flashlight, so seeing the complete package of 2 flashlights complete with batteries near the back steps, he tore into them, popping the batteries in both lights, thinking that maybe I just hadn’t got around to doing it. Well, I hadn’t got around to doing it because they were there for an emergency. I’ve already ordered a replacement for the stairs as well as one for the front door because in an emergency, being able to see is so critical for taking immediate action. Here are some ideas for your flashlights.
Store the flashlight and the batteries together, but do not store batteries in the flashlight. Over time, batteries will slowly drain and you might be out of luck when you need it most! Make sure your flashlight is accessible and stored in a reasonable location. Inside at room temperature is better than in a cold/hot garage. Don’t make it too hard to get to. If it’s in the basement when the sump pump fails, a flooded basement will make it difficult to access. You may want to keep one in your car and desk at work, too.
Don’t just stop at one. Have several flashlights on hand for different purposes. A small one that can be tucked into a hat and used as a headlamp. A large one with large capacity batteries for bright light needs. Consider one that can be free-standing and serve as a room light. Compare bulb brightness (LED vs. incandescent) and capacity (AAA batteries vs. C cells). Consider diversifying your flashlights and batteries in case the ones you need are out of stock at the store. Remember that rechargeable ones are great, but when the power is out, there’s no way to recharge. Also, dispose of used batteries properly.
Don’t forget the trusty old candle as a light source, but beware the risk of fire! Place and light candles where you normally would – a high, flat, wide, safe surface. Don’t put them on the floor or on the edge of a counter. Keep them away from flammable materials (drapes, upholstery, etc.) A candle might not provide light to perform a task, but it can provide orientation for knowing where you are. Don’t carry around a candle to use as a flashlight. Do not sleep or leave your house with a lit candle inside. A jar candle or tea light in a votive holder may be safer than a taper.
Where do you keep your flashlight?
Where do you keep your flashlight?
Our flashlights are on top of a dresser in the middle hall right next to kitchen area. Couple weeks b/4 Christmas there was a power outage. Timothy was studying for finals. First I got the flashlights, then lit candles, then found the kerosene lantern. Timothy looked like Abe studying. Next David went to shed and got the generator going. Hooked up flood lights and we were in the light....... Always have a plan...
ReplyDeleteFlashlights have been a big deal in my family since I was a kid. They really are a marvel of the modern world. To a kid, they are a toy, a science experiment, and monster defense weapon. As soon as my kids were old enough to be safe with them, we introduced them to the magic of flashlights. (Having their own also keeps the kids out of my stash.)
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