Motorists have been warned to remove seven specific items from their vehicles before Thursday, when temperatures are forecast to reach 38°C in the UK. The heatwave is expected to make Thursday the hottest day of the week, prompting many to take to the roads. However, experts caution that certain everyday items left inside cars could pose serious safety hazards.
Vapes and Lithium Batteries at Risk
Shane Margereson, spokesperson for vape experts Ecigone, emphasised the dangers: “A vape should never be left baking in a car. The battery, liquid and seals are all affected by heat, so the safest approach is simple: take it with you, keep it out of direct sun, and do not charge it in a hot vehicle.” He added that if a device feels unusually hot, looks swollen, leaks, or behaves differently after being left in heat, users should stop using it, let it cool in a safe place, and check manufacturer guidance before reusing.
Other Items That Can Leak or Burst
Disposable lighters left on a dashboard or seat can crack, leak, or burst. Aerosol cans—such as deodorant, hairspray, and cleaning sprays—should also be removed. Bottled fizzy drinks, cans, and carbonated water may expand and potentially leak or burst in high temperatures. Medicines including inhalers, insulin, and tablets can lose effectiveness or become damaged by heat, so drivers should take them out.
Sun Cream and Eyewear
Sun cream can separate or lose stability when exposed to heat, making it less effective. Glasses and sunglasses should be removed because frames can warp and lenses may be damaged. Boots previously advised: “Though it might be convenient, the temperature inside a parked car can become much hotter than the outside temperature. Instead, try to take them with you or even store them in the centre console, as this spot may stay cooler than your dashboard or seats if shaded.”
Full List of Items to Remove
- Vapes and spare lithium batteries
- Aerosol cans (deodorant, hairspray, etc.)
- Disposable lighters
- Bottled fizzy drinks and carbonated water
- Medicines (inhalers, insulin, tablets)
- Sun cream
- Glasses and sunglasses
Drivers are urged to check their cars before setting off on Thursday to avoid potential hazards and ensure a safe journey.
