Motorists are being advised to immediately remove aerosol cans from their vehicles as the UK prepares for severe heat this week. A heatwave continues to sweep across the nation with climbing temperatures expected to prompt official weather warnings. The alert arrives as the Met Office releases heat-health alerts for parts of the UK, with meteorologists forecasting unusual temperatures that could drive car interiors far beyond safe limits when parked in direct sunlight.
Why Aerosol Cans Are Dangerous in Hot Cars
Specialists caution that the temperature within a vehicle can escalate swiftly in warm weather, frequently surpassing 50C even when outside temperatures are significantly lower. Under these circumstances, pressurised containers such as aerosol cans can become increasingly unstable. According to the Health and Safety Executive, aerosols are classed as pressurised containers and should be kept away from heat and direct sunlight, as rising internal pressure can lead to leaks, rupture or in rare cases, explosive failure.
Fire Risk from Flammable Propellants
The worry is amplified by the reality that numerous aerosol products contain flammable propellants, meaning any breach of the container in a confined space like a car could also increase fire risk. The UK Health Security Agency has repeatedly warned that vehicles can quickly become hazardous environments during heatwaves, advising the public to avoid leaving heat-sensitive items inside parked cars for prolonged periods.
Other Items to Watch Out For
Motoring organisations also warn that a range of everyday items, including electronics, lighters and sunscreen, can be affected by extreme heat, but aerosols are particularly singled out due to their pressurised nature. Motorists are being advised to check their vehicles carefully before leaving them in the sun, including glove compartments, door pockets and rear seats, to ensure no potentially hazardous items are left behind during the hottest parts of the day.
Simple Precautions to Reduce Risk
With the heatwave intensifying, authorities say awareness of in-car temperatures is becoming a growing safety concern, with simple precautions helping to reduce risks during short stops and longer parking periods in direct sunlight. Drivers are urged to remove aerosol cans such as deodorant from their vehicles before Wednesday, when the highest temperatures are expected.
