Preparation is an ongoing process, not a one-time activity that is considered “done” after a series of tasks are performed.  You will need to check, re-check, and make changes from time to time to ensure you are ready for the unexpected.  Consider these checks to be ongoing maintenance, akin to keeping your automobile in good working order.

Case in point, batteries*.  There are rechargeable and non-rechargeable versions made of various combinations of materials.  All of them have the same function though which is storing electrical energy.  This post will focus on the non-rechargeable ones.

Over time, batteries will lose energy even if the device they are in isn’t being used.  The rate of loss will depend upon factors like the type of device the battery is installed in, ambient temperature, the quality of the battery, and others.  Over time, the materials in the battery can start to break down and leak.  This can cause a mess along with equipment loss, so you want to take steps to avoid this.

I speak from personal experience on this issue because I failed to do this in some of my battery-powered flashlights.  I was able to salvage one of my collapsible Coleman LED lamps, but lost both a single-cell AAA Maglite and a double-cell AA Maglite.  The cells were so swollen in the AA Maglite that I couldn’t extract them and had to throw out the flashlight body!  Now, I regularly check all my battery-powered devices at least twice a year (quarterly is better) to ensure all of the cells are in good shape.  Costco has regular sales on batteries so I have an adequate supply of spare ones on-hand for replacement.

So learn from my mistake and check your batteries on a regular basis.  Normal batteries are relatively inexpensive and widely available so its mostly a matter of making these checks a habit that will ensure your equipment remains operational.  In the future I will discuss where and when to use rechargeable batteries and normal batteries, for now though take some time to ensure that the batteries you will need in an emergency are in good shape.

*Technically most of the ones used are dry cells because the material inside the case is a paste.

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