Pin

Yes, glow sticks can certainly be used at rave parties, so I’ve heard. However, in times of emergency or when you need a reliable light source that doesn’t rely on batteries, glow sticks are an invaluable tool. Also known as snap sticks, light sticks, or chemlights, these simple devices can provide illumination for up to 12 hours, making them an essential addition to any emergency kit or set of gear. Let’s explore why glow sticks are a must-have item and how you can use them effectively in various situations.

How Glow Sticks Work

I am going to keep this high level and not very scientific. In short, due to the combining of multiple chemicals, they work via luminescence.

Glow sticks are incredibly easy to use. All you do is unwrap them, snap them to activate the chemical reaction inside, and then shake them up to get their brightness. This simple process produces a varying degree of light, providing illumination for your immediate surroundings. Whether you’re working in the dark, navigating through a dimly lit area, or simply needing an auxiliary light source, glow sticks are a convenient and reliable option. All without the use of batteries and safer than burning candles!

What is Meant by ‘Snapping’ a Glow Stick?

When we talk about ‘snapping’ a glow stick to activate it, we simply mean that by holding one between each of your index (and middle) fingers, your thumbs, and applying pressure, you will snap it like you are trying to break it in half; but you will not actually break it. You will hear a pop or the ‘snap.’ Think about trying to snap a pencil in half.

“Snapping” a glow stick breaks a small glass tube inside of it that releases one chemical that combines with another. By snapping a glow stick in this manner and then shaking it, you activate the chemicals within the stick causing it to glow.

Longevity and Shelf Life

One important consideration with glow sticks is their shelf life. While most glow sticks come with a stated expiration date of around 5 years, they may still function well past this time frame. We do not suggest relying on them to be fully effective past their stated expiration date. However, we have experimented with some that were eight years old that still worked and provided effective light. While the light may not be as bright as it might have been before passing its expiration date, it can still be enough to potentially work for what you are needing.

Do we recommend relying on them to work past their expiration date, especially if you are needing a bright(er) light source? No. We are simply saying that we have experimented and found that some still work fairly well past their stated date. You should opt to replace yours regularly based on maybe what you learn with the experiments you elect to conduct.

Top 5 Uses for Glow Sticks

Do they have a place in your plans? I bet they do! Here are several ways you could consider the use glow sticks:

In First-Aid and Trauma Kits

Glow sticks are an essential addition to trauma or first-aid kits, especially in situations where you may need to work in the dark. They provide hands-free illumination, allowing you to see and work effectively even in low-light conditions.

For Safe Rooms and Emergency Shelters

Keep glow sticks with other emergency gear in your designated safe room or shelter. They can serve as a general light source, helping you locate essential items or mark important areas. Consider attaching a glow stick to a set of your keys to make them easier to find and identify in the dark.

Camping and Outdoor Activities

Hang glow sticks inside your tent or up in tree branches to provide illumination around your campsite. They’re lightweight, compact, and don’t require batteries, making them an excellent, light weight alternative to traditional flashlights, especially when backpacking.

Trail Markers and Navigation

When hiking or trail running after dark, carry a few glow sticks with you to mark your path or help others find you. Glow sticks can be used to signal your location or guide rescuers to your position in case of an emergency and still light a space for you to see as well.

Roadside Emergencies

As an alternative to flares or keeping larger reflector markers in your vehicle, keep a few glow sticks in your vehicle emergency kit to mark off areas around or behind your vehicle in case of a breakdown on the side of the road or an accident. They can enhance visibility and alert other drivers to your presence, helping to prevent further accidents.

What other scenarios can you think of where a glow stick might come in handy?

Conclusion

Glow sticks are versatile, reliable, and easy to use, making them an indispensable addition to any emergency preparedness kit or gear stockpile.

Whether you’re preparing for natural disasters, trauma scenarios, roadside emergencies, or outdoor adventures, having glow sticks on hand ensures you have access to a dependable light source when you need it most. Remember to periodically check and replace expired glow sticks in your emergency kits to ensure they are as effective as possible when you need them.

By including glow sticks in your emergency preparedness plans and gear, you can stay safer by being more visible, have light to see by when needed most, and generally be better prepared for whatever (dark) challenges come your way.

Related Content