A circuit that includes a latch and an oscillator is attached to a common lamp control switch to cause the lamp to flash when the switch is manipulated in accordance with a prescribed pattern. The flashing draws attention to the lamp and is used, for example, in an emergency. In a first embodiment, the circuit is placed in parallel with the switch. In a second embodiment, the circuit is placed in series with the switch. In both embodiments, the circuit is small enough to fit within an existing switch box.