The following instructions will insure long battery life when followed.
1.  Do not attempt to use the battery without charging.
2.  New batteries need to be charged for 18-24 hours before the first use.
3.  After each weekend of use, allow battery to go completely dead, this can be done by leaving the radio on.  It is acceptable to store battery uncharged for up to  3 weeks.  Before the next event allow them to charge, 12-18 hours.  By repeating this cycle, we have seen customers that have used the same batteries for more than 5 seasons.
4.  Sp50 batteries must be installed with the decal side down, failure to do so may cause severe damage to the radio.
5.  Be sure to dispose of old batteries properly, they are filled with acid and can be recycled.