This is why you back up your data!
I use both Timeshift and Lucky Backup.
Timeshift is setup to back up the entire OS and user data and fire off a backup when updating (onto an internal drive).
Lucky Backup has been setup to do a one way sync of my user folders (doc's, download, pictures, videos etc) onto an external drive.
There is usually basic over discharge protection in the flashlight circuitry and over charge protection for lights with on light charging.
This usually works in conjunction with the protection circuit on the batteries.
18650 batteries (and other sizes) have become more wide spread because of the increased safety of protected batteries.
The batteries OP wants to use are unprotected cells who's manufacturer is unknown, actual capacity is questionable and how they have been handled is unknown.