The exploding headtorch caused a blaze in one of the centre's bedrooms. Photo: Glenmore Lodge

Mountain experts are warning outdoor enthusiasts to be vigilant after an exploding headtorch battery sparked a fire at Glenmore Lodge.

The blaze destroyed a bedroom at Scotland’s national outdoor training centre when the torch overheated while being recharged.

The contents of the battery shot 10 feet across the room, setting fire to a mattress.

Bosses at the centre, near Aviemore, warned walkers, climbers, mountaineers and others using rechargeable headtorches to check they are a reputable brand and not to leave them charging unattended for long periods.

A Glenmore Lodge spokesperson said: “The fire destroyed a first floor bedroom at the centre and all possessions in the room. While the situation was thankfully contained, it has prompted Glenmore Lodge to urge everyone to reconsider leaving electronic items recharging unattended and to share guidance issued by the fire service.”

Shaun Roberts, principal of the training centre, said “Our student had left the headtorch on charge in preparation for an overnight expedition the next day.

“We all understand the desire to have ‘full charge’ before heading out and few of us would think we need to monitor the device whilst it was charging. Consequently the headtorch was charging within an empty bedroom and during this time the batteries overheated, melting the compartment and exploding the internal contents of the battery 3m across the room, on to a mattress and created a blaze that destroyed the bedroom.”

The fire was contained thanks to the fire prevention design of the building, the efforts of the fire service and the quick response of staff, trained to respond to emergencies.

The remains of the headtorch. Photo: Glenmore Lodge

Mr Roberts said: “The battery looked like a spent shotgun cartridge. The headtorch is not a make that any of us would recognise as our regular brands and the device was purchased online via the southern hemisphere. A good price for a powerful LED but also a health and safety lottery.

“We’ll be asking all guests staying at Glenmore Lodge to never leave a device charging unattended and for us all to check out the CE certification printed on our personal devices, whether we use them at home or when we’re travelling.

“We are lucky that this occurred in a modern building, designed to cope, but what if this happened in your home or mountain hut?”

Glenmore Lodge issued advice provided by the fire service to help keep people safe:

• Never leave any device on charge unattended for long periods
• Only use the charger supplied with the device
• Ensure you purchase your gadget from a reputable source
• Check the device carries CE certification
• Test your smoke alarm regularly
• Close doors to prevent fire spreading
• Contact Trading Standards over any safety concerns.