Tip 1:
Don’t Stop Learning.
Read the instructions from your device before installing batteries, and follow them. There have been many changes in battery type and performance, and if you read the instructions you may just learn something. Only use the size and type of battery specified in the instructions, and if there are rechargeable batteries follow the instructions exactly when first charging the batteries, and when recharging. This will ensure that you get the maximum life from the batteries.

Tip 2:
Be Frugal.
Preserve battery life by turning off a device when it isn’t being used, and if it won’t be used for an extended period of time remove the batteries (this prevents discharge and leakage). Put them in a plastic bag (zip-tops work well) and store them with the device.

Tip 3:
Travel Safely.
Keep spare batteries in the original retail packaging, to prevent unintentional activation or short-circuits. Some batteries can get hot enough to catch fire if there is a dead short. If the batteries are loose, place a strip of insulated tape across the battery’s contacts, or place each battery in its own plastic bag so they can’t contact any metal objects such as coins, keys, or jewelry.

Tip 4:
Keep Spares Handy.
Unused batteries have a long shelf life (years), so you can stock up when you find a sale and store them in a cool, dry place at normal room temperature. It is not necessary to store batteries in a refrigerator.

Tip 5:
Reload And Dispose.
When batteries need to be replaced, remove all batteries from the device at the same time and replace them with new batteries of the same size, type, and brand. Don’t mix rechargeable and regular batteries. Always fully charge batteries and devices before you go into the woods, take backups, and properly dispose of all used batteries.

Tip 6:
Just a Little More.
If you need just a little more from a tired set of batteries, you can sometimes coax a little more power if you clean the contact surfaces by gently rubbing with a clean pencil eraser or rough surface. Cold temperatures sap energy from batteries. Place batteries next to your body (in your armpit works fastest) for a few minutes and you can often get a couple more minutes out of your device. In very cold weather, use chemical hand warmers to keep your batteries warm.

Tip 7:
Going Off The Grid?
There are small, simple converters that plug into a auto’s accessory socket that let you use your regular 110-volt battery charger when you are on the road or away from an outlet. Brunton (www.brunton.com) makes a line of solar power panels that I’ve used to charge cell phones and batteries for digital cameras and laptops when far from an outlet or vehicle. It takes a little while, but if you’re going to be in the woods for a week the solar panel can keep you working … and safe!

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