Everyday items that can explode if left in your car during cold weather
People are being warned not to leave common household items in their cars overnight, as the cold weather could make them explode.
This week will see temperatures plummet as the Met Office warns of the "potential for disruptive snow" across the UK, and that means items we leave outside, such as our cars, are set to get very cold. And while we all know this means defrosting windscreens in the morning and shivering as we wait for the heater to kick in, there's actually a bigger problem that the cold weather brings - as it can make some common items you might leave in your car more dangerous.
Motoring experts from Motor Match have warned drivers about a series of everyday items that are commonly left in cars that could pose a problem in freezing weather, as they can break, become less effective, or even explode.
Medication
It's common to have a packet of paracetamol in your car in case of emergencies, and you might even keep a strip of any other medication you need to take in your glovebox so you never forget it. However, experts have warned people to take all medication indoors with them in cold weather.
They said: "We urge drivers not to leave their medications in the car during winter. The freezing temperatures can reduce their effectiveness, which can be a health hazard. Be mindful of leaving glasses or sunglasses in your vehicle when it's cold. The low temperatures can cause the lenses to expand and contract, potentially damaging them."
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Deodorant
You might also be prone to keeping a can of deodorant in your vehicle just in case you need it in a pinch, but experts have warned against it as cold temperatures could cause the cans to explode. The same is true of canned food and fizzy drinks, which could create a mess for you to clean up.
Experts shared: "Storing deodorant in your car during winter is a risk. The cans are pressurised and low temperatures can destabilise them, leading to cracks or even explosions. Leaving canned food or fizzy drinks in your car when it's freezing outside can lead to them exploding due to expansion. It's not just messy, but can also cause damage to your car's interior."
Musical instruments
We're not sure this one is that common, but if you happen to have a musical instrument that you keep in your car, you might want to think about bringing it indoors this week. Instruments like violins and guitars that are made of wood can be warped by the change in temperature throughout the night, so it's always best to bring instruments inside instead of leaving them in the car.
The car gurus explained: "The fluctuating temperatures can lead to irreversible damage due to shrinking and expanding. Electronics like laptops are vulnerable in the cold. The low temperatures can harm their lithium-ion batteries, so it's best to keep them out of your car in winter.
"Just as extreme heat can damage items in your car, the winter cold can too. To avoid costly damages or health risks, always remember to take important items out of your car during the winter months."
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