Avoid These Items in Your Car During Extreme Heat
Extreme heat can cause serious damage to both your car and the items you keep inside it. While most people are aware of the dangers of leaving their car exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods, it"s not always obvious which items should be avoided in such conditions. In hot weather, the inside of a car can easily exceed 100°F (38°C), which can lead to severe consequences for both your belongings and the vehicle itself. Here are some things you should avoid putting in your car during extreme heat.
1. Electronics and Gadgets
Electronics such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and cameras are sensitive to high temperatures. The heat inside a car can cause them to overheat, potentially leading to internal damage or even a complete malfunction. The battery can also degrade more quickly, leading to shorter lifespans for your devices. Always try to keep electronics in a cool, shaded spot or take them with you when leaving the car. If you must leave them inside, consider placing them in the glove compartment or another cooler part of the car.
2. Medications
Many medications, including over-the-counter drugs and prescriptions, can be damaged or lose effectiveness when exposed to extreme temperatures. Heat can cause changes in the chemical composition of medications, making them less effective or unsafe to use. Always store medications in a cool place, and if you"re going to be out in the heat for a long period, take them with you instead of leaving them in the car.
3. Food and Beverages
While it might be tempting to leave a drink or snack in the car on a hot day, high temperatures can cause food and drinks to spoil quickly, especially those that are perishable. Dairy products, meats, and even items like chocolates can melt or go bad in hot conditions. This can lead to unpleasant odors, bacteria growth, or foodborne illnesses. Always carry food and beverages with you in insulated containers or bags, particularly during the summer.
4. Plastic Items and Bottles
Plastic items, including water bottles, toys, and containers, are vulnerable to heat. When exposed to high temperatures, plastic can soften, warp, or even melt. Water bottles, in particular, can release harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) into your drink when they are heated, which is harmful to your health. Instead of leaving plastic items in the car, try to store them in the trunk or cooler parts of the vehicle to prevent damage or contamination.
5. Flammable Materials
Many common items in your car can be flammable, especially when exposed to intense heat. Lighters, aerosol cans, or even cleaning products that contain alcohol or other flammable substances can explode or cause a fire when subjected to high temperatures. Always keep these items out of your car in the summer months to avoid the risk of accidents.
6. Leather Goods
Leather seats, bags, or other items can be severely damaged by extreme heat. Direct sunlight combined with high temperatures can cause leather to dry out, crack, and lose its original color. This can lead to expensive repairs or the need for replacements. If you have leather goods in your car, store them in shaded or cooler areas to protect them from the heat.
7. Rubber Items
Like plastic, rubber items can also be affected by high heat. Tires, rubber floor mats, and even rubber seals can deteriorate faster when exposed to the heat for extended periods. The intense heat can cause the rubber to crack, warp, or even lose its elasticity, reducing the effectiveness of seals and tires. It"s best to avoid leaving rubber-based items in your car for long periods in hot weather.