As the UK endures a heatwave with record June temperatures, the Met Office has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat across parts of England and Wales from 9am Wednesday to 9pm Thursday. Amid this scorching weather, Rooster Car Insurance has highlighted eight items that drivers should never leave in their vehicles, as temperatures inside a car can exceed 50 degrees Celsius.
"In summer, your car can reach over 50 degrees Celsius so it's really important to not leave some things in the car," explained Rooster Car Insurance in a TikTok video. "These are aside from the obvious including children and pets."
Electronics and Aerosol Cans Pose Fire and Explosion Risks
Electronic devices, particularly those with lithium batteries, become a fire hazard when left in a hot car. "Heat can fry the batteries or cause them to swell or leak," Rooster warned. "In a hot car, anything with a lithium battery inside becomes a fire hazard." Similarly, aerosol cans such as hairspray and deodorant can explode under high temperatures.
Bottled Water, Sunglasses, and Medication Can Degrade
Bottled water, often kept for hydration, can become contaminated when heated. "When heated, the plastic can actually leak chemicals into your water," Rooster cautioned. Sunglasses stored in the car may suffer frame warping and UV coating damage. Medication left exposed can lose its effectiveness and become unsafe to use.
Hand Sanitiser, Orange Juice, and Lipstick Are Also Risky
Hand sanitiser, due to its alcohol content, is flammable and should be kept out of direct sunlight. Orange juice and other sugary drinks can explode from heat, creating a mess. Lipstick and lip balms are susceptible to melting, softening, or breaking in hot conditions.
The Met Office has warned that this exceptional hot and humid weather could lead to widespread adverse health effects, potentially causing serious illness or danger to life. Temperatures may reach 38°C to 40°C in parts of England and Wales, surpassing the June record set in 1976 by several degrees. People are urged to take precautions, stay safe, and recognize signs of heatstroke, including a crucial 30-minute rule for cooling down from heat exhaustion.
