Emergency Lighting – You’re more likely to encounter a power outage now than ever before. With the increase and severity of natural disasters, it’s time to be prepared.
Emergency lighting is affordable. And technology is making smaller and more efficient lighting options which don’t rely on costly disposable batteries to operate.
The new emergency lights on the market are easy to store and practical to use. After reading hundreds of reviews and trying over 10 lights at home, these are the best emergency lights.
Vont Emergency Lighting

Vont’s LED Lanterns are an excellent choice for emergency lighting. With vibrant brightness and 90 hours of battery life, the Vont LED Lantern cuts through the night beautifully without the need to ever fumble for a switch.
This lantern earns points for its compact size and collapsible design. You can actually control how much light the lantern casts by simply collapsing and expanding it in your hands.
Another thing I like about these lights is that they use three AA batteries. I do not like built-in batteries that I cannot replace or use in other things.
I prefer the flexibility of using my own rechargeable batteries. Also, non-chargeable AA’s are readily available.
Long battery life
The battery life on this lantern is long-lasting. Expect to get about 90 hours of use before you need to think about replacing the batteries. Each lantern includes three AA batteries.
The light is bright and enough to power a decent-sized tent. You can use several around your home for emergency lighting during power outages.
Collapsible
An unexpected perk is that this lantern collapses. It’s a canister shape. When fully extended, it measures 7.25″ in height and when collapsed, it measures 5″ (12.7 cm). Think of it as around the size of a soup can.
While it may not be an expedition lantern, this model easily cuts through pure darkness when you use it at night. It does a good job of creating really pure visibility inside an area that’s roughly the size of a tent or small cabin. The light you’ll see is the product of 30 small LEDs that create a focused glow.
Another perk is that this lantern is designed to be waterproof. It also seems to stand up nicely to low-impact falls and tumbles. They have a nice convenient handle that can be easily hung up as well. You can also use the handle to carry it.
Vont Camping Lantern
The bottom line on the Vont LED Camping Lantern is that it’s a really handy lantern to have around. It’s ultra-portable configuration makes it a great go-to light to keep in your car or cabinet in your house for emergencies or power outages.
Vont bundles these collapsible lanterns as two-pack sets. That means you can give one to a camping companion or tuck an extra one away in an emergency kit.
It’s hard to top the amount of light you’ll get in such a portable, low-nuisance design.
Vont LED Night Light
We use and have been pleased with Vont’s Lyra LED night lights for several years. They are small and unobtrusive, use very little energy, and turn on-off automatically. They produce the right amount of lighting.
I have them strategically located in hallways, kitchen, bathroom and the garage. They plug into standard sockets.
Because we have been very satisfied with them, we were happy to try Vont’s lanterns as well.
Luci Inflatable Solar Light
The Luci Inflatable Solar Light is one of the best options when it comes to emergency lighting. It’s an extremely durable solar LED lantern that only requires sun to operate.
With seven hours in the sun, the Luci will stay lit for twelve hours on a single charge. The Luci is collapsible, lightweight (4.4 ounces), and entirely waterproof with an IP67 rating.
It’s an extremely versatile light that can help you get through hours of darkness. It can also serve as a camping, patio, or barbeque light.
This solar light comes with 10 powerful white LEDs that shine in three different settings: bright, super bright, and flash mode.
You’ll always know exactly how much charge is left in the light with the charge indicator so you know exactly when you’ll need a recharge.
It comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. This light offers everything you want in a lighting source.
It provides up to 200 hours of light from one charge. This is practically unheard of and essential in an emergency. This is the light to have to prepare for hurricanes and tornadoes.
There are low, medium and high light settings. Other features which make it great for emergencies are the SOS beacon light and the red hazard flashing features. Another awesome bonus is you can charge your cell phone with it.
It charges with a rechargeable lithium ion battery (included). You can also charge it with a USB.
What’s great is you won’t waste money on costly disposable batteries. Reviewers loved bringing this light camping and hiking.
It’s light and portable at just 1.3 pounds. In addition, it’s also water resistant. You will want to use this light for a lot more than just emergencies.
Bigfoot Outdoor Compact Solar Camping Lantern
Be prepared! This compact solar camping lantern and flashlight isn’t only great for camping, hiking, and trekking, it’s great for use as an emergency light.
It’s also an incredibly affordable option. The light has three lighting modes:
- High
- Low
- SOS
Let anyone know you’re in trouble with the SOS option as it will send out a lighting pattern that rescuers will recognize.
You can charge the light with solar power or with the USB. One charge provides 10 hours of light.
This light is compact. You can put multiple lights in your basement and one in your car for roadside emergencies too.
Something special about this camping lantern is you can charge your phone in the USB port. This is a great feature to have as an emergency, when camping, etc. You wouldn’t want to rely on it to charge your phone from 0%, but it’s nice to keep it from dying out.
We just love the using solar power and this light takes advantage of it. You can leave it out during the day so you can use it each night.
GRDE Zoomable 3 Modes Headlamp
This headlamp comes with rechargeable batteries, a car charger, wall charger, and a USB cable. That makes for a plethora of recharge options when it comes to emergency lighting.
With a lifespan of up to 100,000 hours, this headlamp will get you through multiple emergency situations.
It has brightness capabilities of up to 1800 lumens. With a 3-in-1 multi-function capability, you can use this headlamp in a variety of ways.
Depending on the situation, you can use the lamp on your head, around your waist, or set it on down to light a room.
It’s zoomable, adjustable, and extremely durable. The lamp also has three different modes: low, mid, and strobe.
This is a highly portable light source that you will likely find many uses for even outside of emergencies. It’s great to take camping, running, hiking and more.
Eastshien Professional Tactical Flashlight
This compact flashlight will provide great lighting in an emergency. It is 1,000 lumens. You can use the rechargable batteries or charge it with the USB. According to online reviews, this is the flashlight of choice for military and law enforcement professionals.
It will be great to take with you on camping trips.
You can charge it up in your car. You will be surprised at how robust this flashlight is, and how light too… just 4.8 ounces.
Coleman Northstar Propane Lantern
If the sun isn’t going to be coming around for some time to recharge your solar operated emergency lighting, then kick it old school with a propane lantern.
This reliable option is a lamp that sits on top of a small propane tank. No power outage can take your propane away. This leaves you with a solid option for light.
The Coleman Northstar Propane Lantern is a great choice. It will generate light for long periods of time, has adjustable brightness levels (up to 1543 lumens), and is easy to use.
You will find multiple uses for this, not just for emergency preparedness. It’s sturdy, easy-to-use and practical to take camping.
This Coleman propane lantern comes with a case which keeps it together, protected and organized.
Note: Propane lanterns do require very specific sizes based on brand, so pre-purchase a supply of propane that will last you for weeks.
These lamps can also come in handy during a winter power outage or summer storm.
Serenga 2 for emergency lighting
These emergency lighting lamps can be placed in your ceiling at heights of up to twelve meters.
They have a futuristic design that offers a high degree of operational reliability and can distribute light throughout large rooms and corridors.
The lights can light up stairwells and will guide you to safety. The minute the power goes out, these lights are designed to immediately switch to the battery powered built-in support system.
You don’t have to forgo design in your business or home just to have emergency lighting options with the Serenga 2.
It’s important to consider a backup power generator for outages as well.
Parrotuncle Emergency Light
This light can serve as both an emergency light and a handy, powerful lantern for camping trips. It’s a portable LED lantern that requires batteries for use.
A single bulb in the lantern provides up to 100,000 hours of light. The Parrotuncle is also adjustable for various lighting levels during your emergency.
Konig Rechargeable LED
The Konig rechargeable light has 13 LED emitters and a built-in rechargeable lithium battery. Make sure the battery is always charged in case of an emergency, and this light can be an effective and efficient source of light during an outage.
It provides 5 hours of continuous light.
Best Emergency Lighting
Power outages are inevitable, so have these go-to lights the next time you are without power.
With high percentages of power outages happening, it’s important to be prepared with the best portable generators.
There are certain things you can do to prepare for a power outage. Buy several, and keep them in an easy-to-access cabinet or your emergency preparedness box so you will have them when you need them.
The last thing you want to do is to have to rummage around for them in the dark.
Prepare for a power outage with emergency lighting
Emergency preparedness is a necessity. Planning for food storage, as well as emergency lighting, is important for optimal preparedness.
It’s very important to be prepared for a power outage with a propane generator. Having proper lighting will calm your animals during an emergency situation too.
Having lighting is one of the most basic and easiest things to do. Unfortunately, natural disasters and epidemics are on the rise.
Best Dual Fuel Generators Complete Reviews With Comparisons
Ways to Secure Home in the Country from Household Burglaries
How Long Will a Generac Generator Last
Generac GP2200i ~ Find Out If It’s for You
Subscribe to our mailing list:
Your information will *never* be shared or sold to a 3rd party.
FAQs
What are the best lights to have for a power outage? ›
The best source of light during a power outage is any high-quality portable LED light source. LED flashlights use less energy than regular flashlights, which means longer battery life. They are also capable of being as bright or brighter than other bulbs while retaining their efficiency.
Which type of emergency lighting works best? ›Of course, from a safety and environmental perspective, a maintained LED emergency light is the best option for most buildings.
What is the best backup source for a power outage? ›The most popular is a battery backup power system. These systems use batteries to store energy and then release it when the power goes out. Other home backup power systems use generators to create electricity. These can be either gas-powered or solar-powered.
What is an emergency lamp when there is a power failure? ›An emergency light is a battery-backed lighting device that switches on automatically when a building experiences a power outage.
How can I light my house at night without electricity? ›- Old standbys. Candles. ...
- Oil or kerosene lamps. ...
- Frequently used today.
- Flashlights. ...
- Battery lamps. ...
- Solar lights. ...
- Most modern technology.
- Battery backup LED lights.
- Light Intensity. ...
- Battery Charging Time. ...
- Warranty. ...
- Battery Protection from Over Charging. ...
- Low Battery Indication & Deep Discharge Protection.
- Portable generator.
- Surge protector.
- Uninterruptible power supply.
- Power bank.
- Portable power station.
- Power inverter.
- LED lantern.
- Flashlight.
In recent years, microgrid systems have become more popular. Microgrid systems use a number of small renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines. They can power your home or be connected to the grid to provide backup power. You can learn more about microgrid systems here.
What is an alternative power source during a power outage? ›Battery operated flashlights and lanterns are probably the safest, most convenient way to provide lighting. Propane lanterns and candles also work well. Propane powered camping equipment, such as stoves and water heaters, are also convenient substitutes.
What type of emergency light is only illuminated when there is a power failure? ›The luminaire only comes on in the event of a power failure as an emergency light source.
What are two main types of emergency lighting? ›
1). There are two main types of emergency lighting: (i) emergency escape lighting; (ii) standby lighting (p. 2). Emergency escape lighting is defined as "that part of emergency lighting that is provided to enable safe exit in the event of failure of the normal supply".
Does emergency lighting work in a power cut? ›If your power supply fails because of a fire or power cut, the safe evacuation of all occupants via illuminated routes is integral. Emergency lighting is wired to the main power supply, constantly charging the internal batteries, ensuring their functionality during an outage.
How many lumens do I need for emergency lighting? ›Essentially, along paths of egress and exits, every square foot of floor must be lit by an average of approximately one lumen (i.e. – one foot-candle).
What is the difference between escape lighting and emergency lighting? ›A noticeable difference between the emergency and escape lighting is the operating time.. The escape lighting should have a longer operating time of 2 hours from the basic lighting failure. For the emergency lighting, the required time is at least 1 hour.
What is the difference between emergency light and exit light? ›However, both these lights function differently from each other. Where fire exit lights indicate where all of the exits are located in case of emergencies, emergency exit lights light up the way towards these exits so people can navigate to the nearest exit with ease.
Are there lights that don't need to be plugged in? ›String Globe Lights
They're powered by AA batteries, so they'll work anywhere, no outlet required.
- Light bulbs and Lampshades. Start with something simple, like changing out your light bulbs or even your lampshades. ...
- Plug-in pendant lights. ...
- Plug-in wall sconces. ...
- Wireless LED motion sensor lights.
Solar powered flashlights are a fantastic option, and will save you money over time as you won't ever need to replace the batteries! Battery powered lamps or lanterns also come in handy. They're safer for kids to use than oil lamps, and you don't have to worry about strong odors or irritating fumes.
What emergency light has 8 hours backup? ›HexaGear AC-DC Rechargeable Led Bulb with "1000 LUMENS" & "40 SMD" (SMD spotlights offer a higher lumen output for a lower energy consumption) that can be used even during Power Cuts. It gives 8 hours battery backup when it is fully charged. Simple to use and emits really Bright Light.
Does emergency lighting need to be hardwired? ›If the electricity goes out, emergency lights must operate for a minimum of 90 minutes, according to the NFPA. In addition, the electrical supply must provide power within 10 seconds of the loss of normal power. Egress lighting must be “hardwired,” or served by the building's primary electrical supply.
How many emergency lights do I need? ›
There is no specific quantity of emergency lights specified. The requirement is that you provide sufficient lighting levels, in the event of a mains failure, for people to safely exit from a building.
What should I buy to prepare for a blackout? ›- Battery operated torches (one for each member of the family).
- Spare batteries.
- Wind-up radio.
- Tinned and dried food.
- Can opener.
- Spoons and forks.
- Warm blanket.
- First aid kit.
Crackers for snacking with cheese and meats right after the power goes out. Fruit: canned fruits, applesauce. Healthy Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, rice cakes, dried fruit. Comfort food: Pop-tarts, doughnuts, sweets.
How do I keep my refrigerator cold when the power is out? ›- Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. ...
- Buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time.
Generators are an excellent investment for any home owner. Even if you only have one power outage over the course of owning your home the generator will pay for itself in saving the food in your refrigerator and allowing you to charge your important electronics.
Is it worth getting a whole home generator? ›They can be very useful, not just for providing your home with electricity when the power grid fails, but also for increasing the value of your home. There are consumer reports that confirm that the installation of a whole home generator can increase your home's value by 3% to 5%.
How much is a home emergency generator? ›Home generators can range in cost from $200 to $20,000, and that doesn't include installation. According to home improvement website Fixr.com, the national average cost to purchase and install a whole house generator is $10,000 to $20,000. That said, you can find home generators for as low as $200.
What heat options can you use during a power outage? ›Use a Wood Stove or Fireplace
Starting a fire in the fireplace or keeping a wood stove burning are common ways to remain warm while your power's out. Just make sure there is an appropriate amount of ventilation in the home so you aren't at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal power can provide energy without the planet-warming effects of fossil fuels.
Which device can be used as emergency power supply during power outages in residential areas? ›Home generators are handy for backup electricity in case of an outage, but must only be used in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. A back-up generator may only be connected to your home's electrical system through an approved transfer panel and switch that has been installed by a qualified electrician.
What type of lights use the least electricity? ›
LED bulbs. Generally, the most energy efficient lighting technology you can buy for your home is the Light Emitting Diode (LED). A quality LED produces the most light with the least electricity.
What type of lights give off the most light? ›LED light bulbs emit the most light (the greatest amount of lumens) while using much less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
How much does it cost to run a 1000 watt LED light per month? ›Brightness (in Lumens) | Watts | Avg. Cost / month* |
---|---|---|
400 – 500 | 40W | $1.25 |
650 – 850 | 60W | $1.87 |
1000 – 1400 | 75W | $2.34 |
1450 - 1700+ | 100W | $3.12 |
To calculate exactly how much a fan heater will cost you per hour: For example, a 500W fan heater will cost 17p to run each hour under current 34p per kWh rates (500/1000 = 0.5, then 0.5 x 0.34 = 0.17).
What types of lighting system uses the least amount of electricity and lasts the longest? ›The light-emitting diode (LED) is today's most energy-efficient and rapidly-developing lighting technology. Quality LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable, and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting. Check out the top 8 things you didn't know about LEDs to learn more.
How do I add a light without wiring? ›To install a ceiling light without wiring, look for plug-in pendant lights. These are single lights that hang by a cord from the ceiling and plug into a nearby outlet.
Is there such a thing as wireless lights? ›There are many options available in the market when it comes to wireless LED lights. You can find various sets of wireless LED lights in different types of shapes, power capacities, and even color options.
Do LED lights work without electricity? ›' The Safelumin Rechargeable LED bulb will light up even when there's no electricity. The Safelumin LED light bulb uses a regular socket which looks a lot like a standard light bulb, but it runs on battery power if the power going off for hours.
What do you use for light during a power outage? ›- Flashlights and Water Jugs. A flashlight creates a very limited beam of light that typically is not wide enough to fill a room. ...
- Reflective Mirrors. Another way to increase the available light in a space is with reflective mirrors. ...
- Crayon Candles. ...
- Garden Solar Lights.
Good options include low-sodium canned beans, vegetables, fruit (packed in fruit juice), breakfast cereal, peanut butter, pouches of fully cooked whole grains, nuts, whole-wheat crackers, snack bars, and shelf-stable milk or plant milk (the kind sold in aseptic boxes in the grocery aisle).
What to use if there is no electricity? ›
Battery operated flashlights and lanterns are probably the safest, most convenient way to provide lighting. Propane lanterns and candles also work well. Propane powered camping equipment, such as stoves and water heaters, are also convenient substitutes.