One quick observation about batteries: I have never had Duracell or Energiser leak in good quality high end equipment. Every case of leaking batteries has been low end bulk buy batteries, and cheap equipment - like children's toys.
I am, on the basis of experience and observation, quite convinced that there is some kind of electrochemical reaction occuring between the batteries and the contacts that causes the batteries to rupture.
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I don't do dumb & helpless.