Not in any particular order.
You can use Alkaline batteries, but DON"T TRY TO CHARGE THEM. Alkaline batteries have a higher nominal voltage than NiCad and NiMH at 1.5v per cell vs 1.2v for the rechargables.
So don't expect a fully charged NiCad to have the same voltage as an Alkaline.
DO NOT use a charger that is not rated for the voltage of the pack you are trying to charge.
What you really need is a good charger.