The Met Office has forecast sunny spells for the UK over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with temperatures potentially reaching 31°C. However, experts are warning drivers to avoid leaving certain items in their cars to prevent accidents and damage.
Car interiors can rapidly heat up due to the greenhouse effect, reaching 38°C even when the outside temperature is just 16°C. Specialists at GSF Car Parts have compiled a list of common items that should not be left in vehicles during hot weather.
Plastic water bottles are a particular concern. As temperatures rise, chemicals from the plastic can leach into the water, making it unsafe to drink. In extreme cases, bottles can focus sunlight and potentially start a fire. Drivers are advised to remove bottles from the car.
Other items to avoid leaving in cars include alcohol, which can explode above 25°C; batteries, which may leak acid; electronic devices, which can overheat; sunscreen, which can congeal; and aerosols, which may explode under pressure. A Birmingham resident recently faced a £2,258 cleaning bill after a bottle of Prosecco exploded in her car.
