A signaling device includes an electrical circuit which discharges an electrical energy storage device through an electrically powered alert mechanism via a biased open transition switch upon disruption of electrical power in an electrical system of a work machine. A work machine is further provided having an alert device coupled with a normally closed electrical power circuit, the alert device being activated upon opening of the normally closed electrical circuit via a transistor switch. An associated method includes using the signaling device to alert a work machine operator to a predetermined condition by closing a normally open electrically switch to connect an electrical energy storage device with an electrically powered alert mechanism, via an electronic controller or via interruption of electrical power in a normally closed electrical circuit of a work machine.