Use a carbon zinc dry cell for things like that, they won't leak like other alkaline battery types. Bit lower capacity so you'll have to replace them more often but they'll not lead to destruction of the device either.

or if you really need higher capacity, a lithium battery.

Yeah, you probably want to avoid alkaline, and use a NiMH or lithium primary. E.g. the CR123 lithiums are usually rated for 10 year shelf life.

Indeed, for AA applications the Energizer Lithium ones are great (“other brands exist”).

then don't buy an alkaline battery?