All this talk about Turtle Blindness; what about Crocodile Tears? It is a serious drinking disorder where the sufferer deposits tears in their beers. Not a pretty sight at all. And when the person also has Hop Head? Oh the humanity!!!
You can use socks. However, you may need to enlarge the holes ( use holy socks) to control temps. This is PID control; podiatric indicated de-temperisation.
I would leave the batteries in. In electric kettles, the extra power would help shorten the time to full boil. Also, they help keep fur form sticking to the elements. ( consult a licensed beautician before attempting to work with fur) YMMV.