As the UK officially enters summer on Monday, drivers are being warned to remove a number of common items from their cars to avoid fire risks, explosions, and costly damage. The Met Office notes that summer begins on June 1, bringing warmer and more settled temperatures. Brits have already experienced a heatwave, with London reaching 35°C.
Warmer weather introduces risks to people, pets, and essentials like medication. Experts caution against leaving certain items in cars, as they can become fire hazards, explode, or cause health issues. Car insurance firm Rooster Insurance shared guidance on TikTok, noting that cars can exceed 50°C due to the greenhouse effect.
The eight items to never leave in a hot car are:
- Electronics: Heat can damage batteries, causing swelling, leaking, or fire hazards, especially lithium batteries.
- Aerosol cans: Items like hairspray and deodorant can explode in high heat.
- Bottled water: Plastic may leak chemicals into water when heated.
- Sunglasses: Heat can distort frames and damage UV coating.
- Medications: High temperatures can reduce effectiveness, making them unsafe.
- Hand sanitiser: Flammable alcohol poses a fire risk, especially in direct sunlight.
- Orange juice and sugary drinks: Heat can cause them to explode, creating a mess.
- Lipstick: It can melt and become unusable.
Drivers are urged to remove these items before Monday to ensure safety and avoid damage.
