Drivers urged to remove 7 items from car before Thursday

The sunny spell is likely to encourage road users to head out and enjoy the hot weather, with individuals likely to fire up their cars. However, motorists have been told to remove seven items from their cars as soon as possible, with one likely to pose a serious safety risk.

Firstly, vapes and spare lithium batteries should always be taken out, as the heat can damage batteries. The hot weather is also likely to increase the risk of vapes swelling, leaking or failing in a possible safety concern.

Shane Margereson, spokesperson for vape experts Ecigone said: “A vape should never be left baking in a car. The battery, liquid and seals are all affected by heat, so the safest approach is simple: take it with you, keep it out of direct sun, and do not charge it in a hot vehicle.

“If a device feels unusually hot, looks swollen, leaks, or starts behaving differently after being left in the heat, stop using it. Let it cool somewhere safe and check the manufacturer’s guidance before using or charging it again.”

Disposable lighters can crack, leak or burst if they are left on a hot dashboard or seat, while aerosol cans such as deodorant, hairspray and e-learning sprays should also be taken out. Bottled fizzy drinks, cans and carbonated water can expand and potentially leak or burst, while medicines such as inhalers, insulin and tablets may also be at risk.

Hot weather can reduce the effectiveness of the medicine and risks damaging the product, so road users should take these out. Motorists have also been told to take out suncream, which can separate or lose stability when exposed to heat. Finally, glasses and sunglasses should be removed as frames can warp and lenses damaged.

Boots has previously explained: “ Though it might be convenient, the temperature inside a parked car can become much hotter than the outside temperature. Instead, try to take them with you or even store them in the centre console, as this spot may stay cooler than your dashboard or seats if shaded.”