Drivers are told to ‘remove 4 common items’ from cars before Saturday morning As the UK prepares for a heatwave this weekend, an urgent warning has been issued to all motorists: . This advice comes from motoring and safety experts who are concerned about the risks posed by leaving certain everyday items inside hot vehicles.
When temperatures rise, the inside of a parked car can become extremely dangerous — reaching well over 40°C making even the most common objects a potential threat.
Why This Warning Matters
Hot weather isn’t just uncomfortable; it can turn your vehicle into a heat trap. During sunny days, the interior of a car can heat up rapidly, even if parked for a short time. Experts have emphasized that several ordinary items become hazardous under such conditions, especially when left overnight or throughout the day in direct sunlight.
1. Bottled Water and Fizzy Drinks
Plastic water bottles can leach harmful chemicals when exposed to extreme heat. In addition, fizzy drinks sealed in cans or bottles can build up pressure and potentially explode. This creates a mess at best and a safety hazard at worst. That’s why drivers are strongly advised to remove any beverages from their cars before the heat peaks on Saturday.
2. Medications and Sun Cream
Many medicines — especially temperature-sensitive ones like insulin or antibiotics — can lose their effectiveness when exposed to heat. Sun cream, which may seem safe, can also break down and stop providing proper UV protection. Storing these items in hot cars may result in reduced potency or spoilage. It’s best to carry them with you or keep them in a cool place.
3. Battery-Powered Devices
Power banks, mobile phones, vape pens, and other electronics containing lithium-ion batteries pose a real danger when left in high temperatures. Overheating can cause swelling, battery failure, or in worst cases, fire. Leaving these items on dashboards or seats in direct sunlight significantly increases the risk. Experts urge drivers to take all electronic devices with them when leaving the car.
4. Sunglasses and Cosmetics
Items like sunglasses, lipstick, and makeup can be damaged or deformed due to the heat. While they may not pose a direct safety hazard, they can melt, leak, or become unusable. These should be kept in a cool area or taken out of the car entirely during extreme weather.
Final Checklist Before Saturday Morning
To avoid damage, spoilage, or safety risks, make sure you remove the following four items from your car before Saturday morning:
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Bottled or fizzy drinks
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Medications and sun cream
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Battery-powered devices
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Sunglasses and cosmetics
This guidance is particularly important ahead of the weekend heatwave. Taking a few moments to check your car could save you from accidents, costly repairs, or health risks.
Conclusion
The message is simple but serious: Drivers told ‘remove 4 common items’ from cars before Saturday morning. Whether you’re parking for a few hours or overnight, leaving these items in your car during a heatwave can be dangerous. Stay alert, stay safe, and make sure your car is clear before the temperature spikes this weekend.
