[Paddlewise] Battery Questions

Hello List,

I paddle with several devices that are powered with conventional alkaline
AA and C dry cell batteries (flashlight, head light, strobe, weather radio
sometimes, etc).  Ideally, all my paddles would begin with absolutely new
batteries, however I must confess that I venture out with old, never used
batteries (following a quick check that they work) and batteries that have
only been used a little.  Being used "a little" is judged by a very
subjective memory (mine).

Starting each trip with absolutely new batteries is certainly possible,
though perhaps a little costly.  Then there's the problem of what to do
with the "slightly used" batteries that they replace.  So I have two
questions for the list:

1.   What do you do with slightly used batteries that you don't want to
take to sea?  There is only so many times I can stick them in the TV and
VCR remote.  (Note- TV and VCR remotes represent a class of devices that I
feel don't need to be reliable.)  Perhaps they could be donated to
children's toys, even if you don't have any children.  Fresh ideas are
needed!!!

2.   Are rechargeable AA and C batteries a practical alternative to
conventional alkaline cells?  Do they work as long when needed?  Are there
problems with charging memories (theirs, not mine)?

Naturally, when I'm through with the batteries, I dispose of them in an
environmentally friendly way.  My local library has a collection container.

Wishing everyone a great new year....


Bill Leonhardt 
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/
***************************************************************************