Lighting

Sources of light can be vitally important in an emergency and a flashlight (aka torch) is often at the top of the list for supplies in disaster preparedness packs. A source of light is also very valuable for those areas of the world where there is no central power grid. Ashraf Ghani once described a light bulb in every kitchen as being one of the most transformative things that could be done in Afghanistan. Lighting can extend working hours and allow children to study after working during the day, and also help adults take care of the household and even run small businesses. Adequate lighting is also important for security, and must be a consideration when establishing camps, whether short-term or long-term refugee camps.

The lights needed after a disaster and the lights for developing world often have similar characteristics, and many products are now using renewable power sources such as solar or mechanical or combinations of the two. Many lights that have renewable energy supplies are also combined with radios and cell phone chargers.

To help and share knowledge, TIDES has put together a list of informative websites on artificial lighting and a list of companies that can provide the equipment.

Recent improvements in, and mass production of, LEDs (light emitting diodes) have had a huge effect on the industry, because LEDs use significantly less power than incandescent bulbs, though the costs often are higher. They also can be arranged in diverse configurations because of low heat output and other characteristics. Fluorescent (especially compact-type), halogen and krypton bulbs are still valuable and can be found in many products.