Motorists in the UK are being warned to take certain items out of their vehicles ahead of a forecasted heatwave. Temperatures are expected to climb to 34°C in four English counties on August 2, with much of the country experiencing sweltering conditions above 30°C, according to WXCharts.
Bottled Water
While staying hydrated is important during long drives, bottles of water left in a car can become a hazard. High temperatures inside a parked vehicle can cause chemicals from the plastic to leach into the water, making it unsafe to drink. In extreme cases, a water bottle can act like a magnifying glass, focusing sunlight onto seats or carpets and potentially starting a fire.
Sun Cream
Sun cream is essential for protection against the sun, but leaving it in a hot car can damage both the product and the vehicle. The plastic bottle may become brittle and build up pressure, leading to an explosion that ruins the interior. Additionally, exposure to heat can degrade the sun cream's effectiveness, reducing its ability to protect the skin.
Medicine
Medications such as paracetamol and other painkillers can lose their potency if left in a hot car. While the tablets may appear unchanged, the heat can alter the chemical composition. Drivers are advised to check the storage instructions on the packaging, which usually specify a maximum temperature for safe storage.
Battery-Powered Electrical Devices
Items like smartphones, MP3 players, cameras and laptops contain dense battery packs that should not be exposed to temperatures above 40°C. Heat can cause them to lose charge faster or, in extreme conditions, catch fire. Beyond the safety risk, theft is another reason to avoid leaving such devices in plain sight.
