EditorHeatwave warning: Seven everyday items that can become dangerous in hot cars
Motoring experts have highlighted seven common objects that could become hazardous when exposed to extreme heat inside parked cars.
While most people know not to leave pets or children in hot vehicles, fewer realise that items like suncream, medication and mobile phones can also pose serious risks.
Here are seven things you should never leave in a hot car this summer:
1. Mobile phones
Phones are highly sensitive to heat. Car interiors can reach double the outside temperature, causing batteries to degrade, devices to overheat, and in extreme cases, even catch fire. Leaving your phone on a dashboard or seat in direct sunlight is especially risky.
2. Medication
Many medicines, including insulin and antibiotics, require cool storage. Even common children’s medicines like Calpol should be kept below 25°C. Heat exposure can reduce effectiveness or make them unsafe to use.
3. Suncream
Heat breaks down the active ingredients in suncream, making it ineffective against harmful UV rays. Leaving it in a hot car could increase your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
4. Plastic water bottles
Plastic bottles can leach chemicals like BPA into the water when exposed to high temperatures. Even BPA-free plastics aren’t ideal in extreme heat. Experts recommend using stainless steel or glass bottles and taking them with you when you leave the car.
5. Sunglasses
Leaving sunglasses on the dashboard might be convenient, but it can ruin them. Heat can warp plastic frames and distort lenses. Store them in a case and keep them out of direct sunlight.
6. Aerosol cans
Pressurised cans—such as deodorants, air fresheners or cleaning sprays—can explode if the internal pressure builds up in a hot car. Even if they don’t rupture, heat can degrade the contents and cause leaks.
7. Electronics and power banks
Laptops, tablets and portable chargers contain lithium-ion batteries that degrade quickly in heat. Prolonged exposure can damage internal components, cause batteries to swell or leak, and even pose a fire risk.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said: “Most drivers know not to leave pets or children in hot cars—but far fewer realise everyday items like sunglasses, medication or even suncream can become a hazard too.”
As the heatwave approaches, experts are urging drivers to clear their vehicles of sensitive items and avoid leaving anything behind that could melt, warp or overheat.
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Houston Public Media
