What potential issue is mitigated by emergency lighting in elevators?

Emergency lighting in elevators is primarily designed to enhance safety during critical situations, particularly during power outages. When the main power supply is interrupted, elevators can become inoperative, which may leave passengers stranded inside. In this scenario, lack of adequate lighting can create panic and confusion among the passengers. Emergency lighting provides a reliable source of illumination that enables individuals to safely exit the elevator or signal for help, greatly reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring their safety until normal operations can resume.

This safety feature directly addresses the dangers associated with power outages, making it an essential aspect of elevator design and operation. The other options do not specifically relate to the principal function of emergency lighting in terms of elevating safety during such emergencies.