COMMENT: ARES and other EMCOMM units need to have emergency power sources
available and “at the ready”; or, at least know where they can be accessed easily. Many hams own a small generator, or storage battery system. Sponsoring and maintaining a generator an excellent “project” for clubs. It is easier to CONSERVE POWER than it is to “make” more! Use as low a power output as is necessary.
An efficient antenna will allow you to communicate with less power output...and therefore less power drain! KNOW how to boost your signal by increasing your ERP with a gain antenna using minimum current drain.
NiCad and lead-acid batteries have their “place”...but without a way to re-charge them and the time for that to happen...you will have a dead radio. Keep a fresh supply of ALKALINE cells on hand. Their shelf life is about 5 years! “Rotate” the older stored
cells by using them in a flashlight or HT that you use daily.
!BONUS! - ASTRON POWER SUPPLY BATTERY BACK UP MODIFICATION
The Astron line of power supplies are very popular with repeater providers. They are also probably are the most common commercially power supplies found in amateur radio stations.
If you have a deep cycle or gel cell battery back-up for EMCOMM needs, the following link has some information that may be of interest. http://www.ntc.cap.gov/comm/ntc/RS_Battmod.htm.
(Thanks to: Ed Ewell, K7DXV, Klamath County ARES)