Question

what is the best way to protect computer equipment from damage caused by electrical spikes?
connect equipment using a usb port.
turn off equipment thats not in use
recharge equipment batteries regularly.
plug equipment into a surge protector.

Explanation:

A surge protector is designed to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes. USB ports are for data transfer and powering low - voltage devices. Turning off unused equipment doesn't protect from electrical spikes. Recharging batteries regularly is about battery maintenance, not spike protection.

Answer:

Plug equipment into a surge protector.