In our house, we have too many flashlights to count. Long flashlights with a stack of C batteries in each, tiny flashlights on key rings, a flashlight magneted to the fridge, flashlights with strobe settings, a crank-powered flashlight, black flashlights, silver flashlights, colorful flashlights, and of course my super hero flashlight. The list goes on and on.
We may have gotten a bit carried away, but how many might someone actually need? I’d like to offer a simple equation that you can use to determine the minimum number of flashlights that I’d recommend for your household.
FL = P + C + T + D, where
- FL = the minimum number of flashlights
- P = the number of people in the household, and so the number of bedsides for a flashlight. Who wants to wake up in the the middle of a storm with no electricity and have to track down a flashlight? Not me.
- C = the number of cars. Put a flashlight in each car, probably a reasonably heavy duty one, maybe with a strobe option.
- T = number of travellers in the household. Those trips might be around the world or simply to school. Having a small flashlight in each person’s purse, briefcase, or backpack could be very helpful if the power goes out in the hotel, office, or school.
- D = the number of doors in your home through which family members generally enter. Put a flashlight close to the main family entrances. Then, if someone who doesn’t have a flashlight in their purse, briefcase, or car comes home to a power-deprived house, a flashlight will be within easy reach. They won’t have to stumble through a dark house looking for one.
If your collection of flashlights doesn’t add up to your household’s FL, you might want to purchase more. Having a safe, dependable source of light in any situation can be a very reassuring thing, helping you keep your cool in an emergency and helping you to avoid any hazards that may be lurking in the dark.
Where else might you like to have a flashlight stashed?
More Ready Today! 