Individual checked out a BKR 5000 radio from the CIMT communications unit after checking in to the Rock Fire. The radio was given with a AA battery clam shell and a pack of new AA batteries. The next morning, the radio would not turn on so the individual returned the radio to the COML. The communications unit opened the battery pack and saw that one side of the pack the batteries were placed opposite of their required positioning. This caused the batteries to overheat and leak also melting parts of the internal clam shell and expanded the batteries on the other side. Fortunately this was noticed prior to going to the line and only the clam shell was damaged. |