So it’s wise to have a flashlight on hand. And modern tech has made them more advanced.

What to look for:

Make it easy. “The best options are ones with large, obvious buttons or knobs, comfortable grip, simple controls,” says Brian Shaunfield, a store manager at a Lowe’s in Charlotte, North Carolina. “A simple rule of thumb is: Pick a light that you can use while half asleep, in the dark, without reading instructions.”

Brightness matters. Older flashlights used incandescent bulbs, which had a fairly low (up to about 150) lumen count, or measure of brightness. LEDs can provide anywhere from the 150 to 500 lumens you need for everyday tasks to over 1,000 lumens for outdoor use.

Charge it … Disposable batteries can drain quickly and sometimes die in the drawer before you need that flashlight. Today’s built-in, rechargeable batteries last longer (just be sure to keep the device charged) and are more environmentally friendly, creating less hazardous waste. Battery life varies, but a rechargeable LED flashlight generally can last from four to 27 hours, depending on the product and brightness.

… or harness hand or sun power. A hand-crank flashlight can be used for as long as you like. A few minutes of cranking will give you roughly 30 minutes of light. There are also solar-powered options, which can store up to as many hours of light as other flashlights.

Get a grip. Older flashlights were often made of smooth plastic. Find a newer one with a rubber grip or a metal casing with texture for a better hold.

Is the best flashlight not a flashlight? Battery-powered and solar lanterns are becoming a more common part of emergency prep kits. They can light up a whole room while sitting on a flat surface, freeing up your hands for other tasks. They also usually have dimming capabilities, which can extend their battery life. —Chris Morris