What item should be considered when personnel encounter low light conditions?

In low light conditions, flashlights are essential items to consider because they provide the necessary illumination to navigate and identify potential threats or safe areas. Using flashlights can help personnel communicate better, illuminate dark spaces, and reduce uncertainty, which is crucial in active shooter situations. Having a reliable light source assists in decision-making and enhances situational awareness, allowing responders to effectively evaluate their environment, perform necessary actions, and maintain safety.

Reflective tape, signal flares, and night vision goggles have their applications but fall short compared to flashlights in general response situations. Reflective tape is useful in marking areas but does not provide light. Signal flares are better suited for attracting attention but can be hazardous and may not be practical for close-quarter scenarios. Night vision goggles are specialized equipment that may not be realistic for all personnel to use effectively in an emergency situation, particularly if they lack the training or resources to operate such devices properly. Therefore, flashlights represent the most practical and effective solution for personnel encountering low light conditions during critical incidents.