A night-time outage is easier to manage when a light is within reach. The most useful lighting plan is simple: suitable torches in known places, compatible spare power and clear routes through the home. Avoid making a flame your default emergency light.
Choose the right light for the task
A small torch can help someone move around, while a stable battery light may suit a shared room. Try the controls and brightness with the intended user, including anyone with sight or dexterity needs. Reuse working equipment before buying more and check the instructions for battery type, charging and safe storage.
- Keep at least one light reachable from the sleeping area.
Place lights deliberately
Agree familiar storage places instead of moving every torch into a box in another room. Keep the route to the bathroom, exits and essential supplies clear. Avoid trailing cables or unstable lights where someone may trip. A person using mobility aids may need a different arrangement from someone who can comfortably carry a torch.
- Show visitors or carers where the light is kept.
Maintain the arrangement
Test the actual light and its power supply during ordinary checks and after use. Replace or recharge according to instructions and keep compatible spares where appropriate. Government preparedness guidance recommends torches as safer than candles. If an outage also affects health equipment or safe heating, follow the relevant provider plan rather than treating lighting as the only issue.
- Review locations after rearranging furniture.
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