Drivers are being warned to remove three specific items from their cars by the end of Monday as a heatwave returns to parts of the UK, with temperatures expected to reach 34°C later this week. The Met Office forecasts highs of 33°C on Monday in London, gradually rising to a peak of 34°C on Thursday.
Why Heat Poses Risks to Common Car Items
High summer temperatures can have a devastating effect on safety behind the wheel, often for unexpected reasons. Drivers are urged to take out bottled water, medicine, and sun cream before the heat intensifies.
Bottled water left in a car can magnify sunlight and, in extreme cases, cause a fire inside the vehicle. The best practice is to remove the bottle to keep the car safe and the water tasting normal.
Medicines and Sun Cream: Hidden Dangers
Over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol, Calpol, and other painkillers have a maximum safe temperature. If left in a hot car, they may become less effective or completely ineffective. Most commercial painkillers are rated only up to 25°C, meaning they could stop working and potentially make you feel worse. Health experts have advised storing some medicines in the fridge during the heatwave.
Sun cream, also known as sunscreen or sunblock, can degrade when left in a hot car. The bottle may explode due to pressure buildup in the heat. It is recommended to treat it like out-of-date sun cream and replace it.
What to Keep in Your Car During a Heatwave
Drivers should ensure they have plenty of fuel, as fuel runs out faster in a heatwave. It is also vital to check water and oil levels and top up air conditioning gas. Drivers are advised to monitor the engine temperature gauge to avoid costly breakdowns in the sun.
