I just had the SAME problem (twice). I have long standardized (to the extent possible) on AA batteries.

I EDC a single AA LED light. An alkaline leaked and there is now a bit of corrosion at the end of the aluminum tube. The light (mostly) works but needs a bit of bearing grease by the spring.

I also keep a 2-AA light in a tent. This one had a leaky AA that I simply could not get out at all.

I think I am going to keep loose alkalines around as spares but use Lithiums in the EDC light.

Conway Yee