Not sure that is the best advice. I too have never had a problem- had a pack or two go below 3v/cell and did a nimh charge.
I always balance charge and charge as slow as time permits- general never in a hurry. I don't like leaving batteries in situ incase of a small current drain.
In my 5yrs if charged as specified etc never a problem but hiding by some of HKs customer service I doubt they would rebuild my house if they sold me a faulty pack so why take the risk when some practical low tech and low cost solutions are available?!
(old metal filling case, old pot an some sand?!!)