Flashlights provide a portable, temporary light source where other lighting is unavailable or impractical. These battery-powered or rechargeable flashlights can be taken where needed to bring light into dark or dimly lit areas. They're commonly used to provide light for emergency situations, nighttime navigation, maintenance work, and security patrols. Flashlights range from pocket-sized penlights for close-up tasks to high-output lanterns for area lighting.