How do I turn off a flashing SOS light on a torch or work light?
Answer
On many torches and work lights, SOS is just one mode in the button cycle. Press the power or mode button briefly to advance past SOS, or hold it for about one second if a short press does not change the mode.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not cut or splice a live power cord to stop the light.
- Staring at a bright flashing SOS mode can be uncomfortable; point the light away while changing modes.
Follow these steps
Try a short mode press
Press the power or mode button once quickly and wait a second to see if the flash pattern changes to high, low, or off.
You should see: The light leaves SOS and shows another brightness mode or turns off.
Hold the button briefly
If it keeps flashing, press and hold the same button for about one second, then release.
You should see: SOS stops, or the light powers off.
Cycle through remaining modes
Keep using short presses to move through the mode list until you reach steady light or off. Many lights store SOS between strobe and dim modes.
You should see: You land on a usable steady mode or the light is fully off.
Remove power only if controls fail
If button presses do nothing, disconnect the battery, USB cable, or power plug when it is safe to do so, wait a few seconds, then reconnect and set a non-SOS mode.
You should see: The light restarts in a normal mode or stays off until you choose a mode.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A repeating three-short / three-long / three-short SOS flash pattern and a single power or mode button on the light.
Before you change anything: Note whether the light is battery-powered, USB-powered, or hardwired. Avoid forcing the housing open while it is connected to mains power. Do not cut cords or defeat safety covers. If the light is vehicle- or equipment-mounted, confirm you can operate it safely before pressing controls.