How to Safely Maneuver in the Dark with a Flashlight

If you ever hear something go bump in the night, there may be a danger nearby. There is a certain way you need to maneuver in a dark space when you are using your flashlight to maximise your safety.

Here’s how to do it…

  v  Try the light switch first
If you are in a low-light environment, your first step should be to simply try turn on the main light source if it is convenient and safe to do so. The more light, the better!

Yes, there will be situations when turning on the main light switch is impossible. You may not be near the switch, the electricity is out or you are outside, etc. In that case you will need to use your flashlight!

Keep in mind that if you suspect threat there is an attacker nearby, you will need to use your flashlight in a certain way to keep yourself safe.

  v  Light on, scan, light off, move
When you are maneuvering in a low-light environment and believe that there is an armed attacker nearby, you don’t want to leave your flashlight on the entire time. This will only make you an easy target. Instead, follow these simple steps:

- Light on
- Scan environment. Look for threats
- Light off
- Move
- Repeat

Your threat will likely shoot at or attack where they last saw the light from your flashlight. By turning off your flashlight and then moving, you will increase the chances that you’re not standing where your threat is going to attack.

Now you know how to safely and successfully move around in the dark!