Peak is easy: It's whatever it is when the pack peaks. Peak isn't a specific voltage; it's when the voltage starts to drop off, and it can vary from cell type to cell type, from charge to charge, etc...

Safe charge current is C, or 1C for all cell types. What's C? C is the Capacity of the pack. C for a 2400mAh pack is 2400mA, or 2.4 Amps. Charge as close to C as you can for NiMH and NiCd.

Discharging every time just wastes useful cell life. One complete discharge-charge cycle once per season is appropriate to verify that the pack is in good health. Also discharge at C.

A word about battery care: You will never get 1100mAh out of an 1100mAh pack on a discharge cycle, and you will generally put more than 1100mAh back in. This doesn't mean the pack is going bad, or is super-good, respectively. It means that the charge process is not 100% efficient.