Six surprising items you should NOT leave in your car in summer – they could seriously harm you
EXPERTS have revealed six surprising items you should not leave in your car during the summer – as they could seriously harm you.
LeaseCar’s Tim Alcock said that many Brits do not realise that the items can become dangerous if left in hot weather.
He said: “Most of us have been used to British summertime being a bit of a damp squib, but in recent years we have seen much higher temperatures.
“Drivers need to ensure that they are aware of hot-weather motoring risks.
“Throughout the summer it’s best to clear out your car and remove any items which could be hazardous.”
Here are the six items you must not leave in your car this summer.
Suncream
Most people only use suncream in hot weather – so it might seem strange to suggest it shouldn’t be left in the heat.
But several ingredients in sunscreen can break down if left in hot cars – so it won’t protect you from dangerous UV rays.
If a bottle of suncream gets too warm it can also explode – leaving white goo all over your car.
Water bottles
Everyone knows that it’s important to stay hydrated in summer.
But plastic water bottles left in the heat can have a reaction, leaking toxic chemicals like antimony into the water.
Antimony can harm your eyes and skin – and wreak havoc on your lungs, heart and stomach.
If you do need to leave a water bottle in your car, it’s best to get a reusable one made from metal, glass or BPA-free plastic.
Medicine
Some medications like insulin and antibiotics must be stored of the fridge – while others like Calpol cannot be kept in temperatures above 25C.
Drugs can turn bad in the heat, becoming useless or even harmful.
Always check the packaging to find out how to store medicine correctly.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are another summer essential for motorists across the UK – but they also must not be left in a hot car.
If you leave a pair of sunglasses in the heat, the lenses could scratch, warp or even break.
The plastic frames of the glasses could also discolour and warp – making the sunglasses sit oddly on your head.
Canned drinks
Few things in life are better than a cold fizzy drink on a warm summer day.
But carbonated cans left in a hot car often explode all over the interior – creating a sticky, smelly and possibly expensive mess.
Mobile phones
During high summer the temperature in your car can rise to almost twice what it is outside.
Your phone’s battery could break if it overheats – leaving you with a hefty bill.