As summer heat rises, it’s all too easy to throw items into the car and forget about them. Whether you’re out running errands, heading to the beach, or darting between activities, most of us have left something in the back seat at some point.
However, while it might seem harmless, certain everyday items can turn unexpectedly dangerous when left in a hot vehicle. Even something as ordinary as a plastic water bottle can present unforeseen risks.
It’s simple to let jackets, bags, shopping, and even a bit of clutter accumulate in the car. After a long day, bringing everything inside can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. But treating your car like a storage space isn’t a habit you want to develop—especially during the hottest months of the year.
Most people are aware that they should never leave children or pets in a parked car. Yet, there are many other items that can be damaged by heat or even become safety risks. According to Erie Insurance, there are several things you should avoid leaving in your car.
Items like spray paint, hairspray, and household cleaners can become hazardous in extreme heat. As temperatures increase, the pressure inside the can rises, heightening the risk of leaks, ruptures, or even explosions.
Disposable lighters may appear harmless, but they can leak or explode when subjected to high temperatures, posing a potential fire risk inside your vehicle.
Things you should never leave in your car
Leaving canned sodas or other drinks in a hot car is also unwise. If the can gets too hot, it can burst, creating a sticky mess that’s tough to clean up.
Loose batteries are also vulnerable to heat. High temperatures can lead them to leak corrosive chemicals, which could damage your car’s interior or any nearby items.
A neglected plastic water bottle might appear insignificant, but if left in heat for too long, harmful chemicals from the plastic can seep into the water. Although experts are still researching the long-term consequences, it’s advisable to steer clear of drinking water that has been left in a hot vehicle for extended periods.
Many individuals store medications in their cars for easy access, but this practice is not advisable. Exposure to heat and fluctuating temperatures can diminish the potency of some medications, rendering them less effective when you need them the most.
