Bangkok: A recent investigation into the dangers of leaving specific items in cars parked under the sun has confirmed that it can pose significant risks.
According to Thai News Agency, the program “Sure Before Sharing” consulted automotive expert Dr. Nopadol Klinthong from Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi to examine the validity of warnings circulating on social media about six items that should not be left in vehicles. The findings underscore the potential hazards associated with each item, with the conclusion that these warnings are indeed accurate and should be shared for public safety.
The first item on the list is power banks. These devices, which house lithium-ion batteries, have a standard operating temperature limit of 45 degrees Celsius. However, temperatures inside cars parked in direct sunlight can soar to 60-80 degrees Celsius, particularly near the front console, posing a risk of battery swelling, explosion, or fire.
Mobile phones and electronic devices also fall under this category. Similar to power banks, these devices use lithium batteries that are sensitive to heat. Leaving them charging in the car, especially under fast-charging conditions, can cause the battery to deteriorate, swell, or short-circuit due to the accumulated heat.
Plastic water bottles filled with water can act as a “converging lens” when exposed to sunlight at certain angles, potentially focusing heat onto car interiors. Although rare, if the focused light hits flammable materials, it could cause burns or fires.
Alcohol sprays and aerosol cans are particularly dangerous due to the high pressure of compressed gas inside them. Exposure to heat can cause the gas to expand, risking an explosion. If flammable substances like alcohol are involved, the incident could lead to a widespread vehicle fire.
Lighters, which contain highly flammable liquefied gas, are another risk. The gas can expand rapidly in the heat, increasing the potential for an explosion that could shatter windows or ignite a fire.
Finally, gas-filled balloons, especially those filled with hydrogen, pose a significant threat in hot cars. Hydrogen is flammable and can easily explode under high temperatures, potentially causing a fire.
In conclusion, the shared information regarding these six items is accurate and warrants dissemination to the public to prevent potential accidents. To ensure the safety of your vehicle and belongings, it is advised to remove these items from your car or store them in the coolest area available, avoiding direct sunlight exposure.