Years ago, having a light source at night was one of humanity’s greatest needs. In ancient times, torches met that need, providing light and warmth to humans on cold and dark nights.
Centuries later the first candles emerged, which could keep the fire burning longer. However, many people realized that torches, candles, and other similar light sources could cause terrible fires.
The solution to the problem came with the invention of the first flashlight in the late 19th century. Flashlights are portable, lightweight and easy to use. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have one.
In this article, you’ll learn how to use a flashlight in the right way to get the most out of your survival tool.
What is Flashlight?
A flashlight is a portable tool that provides lighting. Basically, a generic flashlight is made up of three basic parts: a light bulb, a reflector and a case.
In the past, miniature incandescent light bulbs were common in the manufacture of the first flashlight models. However, modern models use LED lights, which consume much less energy and emit a much more intense light.
The reflector around the light source can be either plastic or metallic. Usually, a thin aluminum sheet bent like a cone works as the reflector. The reflector helps focus the light in a certain area, avoiding considerable loss of lighting. For better focus, a glass lens is placed in front of the reflector.
The cylindrical case contains the batteries that power the flashlight. Depending on its size, a common flashlight may require one or two AA, AAA or D batteries. On the lid of the case there’s a spring that compresses the batteries to ensure optimal contact between the terminals.
Flashlights from 19th century used carbon-zinc batteries. These batteries weren’t able to provide a stable direct current for a long time, so the light tended to fade very quickly. Due to the short duration of their light, these tools were known as “flashlights”.
However, after letting the battery rest for a short time, the flashlight started working normally.
How to Use Flashlight : Step by Step Guide
Using a flashlight is very easy and you don’t need to be an expert to understand how it works. Below, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step guide to learn how to use a flashlight like a pro.
1Press or slide forward the power button. This button is usually on the case, near the reflector. However, some models have this button on the lid of the case.
2If the flashlight turns on, continue to the next step. If not, you’ll need to replace the light bulb. To do this, unscrew the plastic ring that retains the lens and reflector. Then, unscrew the old light bulb and install the new one. Finally, screw the retaining ring.
3After turning on the flashlight, adjust the position of the lens to focus the light at your convenience. To do this, rotate the adjusting ring around the retaining ring of the flashlight. The closer the lens is to the light bulb, a strong light will focus in a small circle. Otherwise, the light will be dimmer and occupy a bigger area.
Conclusion
Certainly, many common nighttime activities today would be impossible to do without flashlights. In addition, taking one of these to your next outdoor adventure could be the guarantee of your own survival.
So, make sure to have one or two of these at home in every emergency. Electric blackouts happen all the time and a flashlight is all you need to avoid accidents in the dark.
If you’ve never used a flashlight in your life, follow the advises in this guide one by one and everything will be fine.
Here is this article source.