UK drivers are urged to remove common items from their cars today ahead of soaring temperatures this week. As another heatwave descends on the nation, with some parts of the UK expected to see temperatures over 30C, drivers are being warned of the dangers of leaving their belongings in the car.
Extreme temperatures can not only cause damage to some items, but they can also cause a fire or health risk. Markus Lindblad from Haypp has shared the everyday items drivers should remove from their cars over the next few days as temperatures rise.
Sunglasses
When exposed to extreme temperatures, the heat can warp or break the frame or the lenses, as well as cause the lenses to crack. The expert suggests keeping them in a case or shaded place.
Sun cream
When sun cream is exposed to high temperatures, it can break down the active ingredients, making the suncream less effective at protecting skin from harmful UV rays. Extreme hot weather can also cause the bottle to crack and leak, damaging your car’s interior.
Vape devices
Batteries in vapes are very sensitive to any extreme change in temperatures, especially heat. If you leave your vape in the car, and it’s exposed to the sun for a long period of time, then the vape battery is at risk of swelling, leaking, and in some cases, can potentially cause the vape battery to explode.
Fizzy drinks
When exposed to extreme heat, the carbon dioxide gas in the drink can expand and cause it to explode in the car.
Medications
Everyday medications, such as inhalers, antibiotics, and insulin, can become less effective when exposed to extreme heat for a long period of time. To avoid any potential health risks, Mr Lindblad says to keep all medications out of the car during a heatwave and follow the storage guidelines provided.
Birth control
Similarly, leaving birth control, including contraceptive pills and condoms, in a hot car can make them less effective. Condoms are more likely to break, and the active ingredients in birth control pills can be degraded.
