Hot Cars Can Turn Everyday Items Into Safety Risks

As heat waves become more frequent and begin earlier in the year, drivers are being reminded to check what they leave behind in parked vehicles. Even common items can become unsafe when temperatures climb inside a closed car.

The inside of a parked vehicle can quickly become much hotter than the air outside. On a hot day, temperatures inside a car can reach 120 degrees, creating risks for certain products and personal items.

Pressurized containers are among the items that should be removed. Soda cans, hair products, perfumes and similar containers can crack or explode when exposed to rapid temperature increases. This can create a mess and may also cause injury if the container bursts.

Plastic water bottles can also become a problem in extreme heat. When a bottle warms up, bacteria can multiply in the water. Drinking contaminated water may lead to vomiting, diarrhea or other illness.

Medications should never be left in a hot car for long periods. Heat can break down medicinal and active ingredients when temperatures exceed 86 degrees, making some medications less effective. Sunscreen and skin care products can also lose strength, which means they may not provide proper protection from the sun or certain skin conditions.

Other everyday items can also be damaged by heat, including eyeglasses, smartphones and cosmetics. Lenses, screens, batteries and makeup products may warp, melt, leak or stop working properly.

The safest habit is to remove sensitive items from the car before temperatures rise. Drivers should check the seats, glove box, center console and trunk for heat-sensitive products, especially before a heat wave.

A few seconds of prevention can help protect personal belongings, avoid health risks and prevent damage inside the vehicle.