Drivers have been issued urgent safety advice as soaring temperatures, expected to reach 33C in parts of the UK, could turn seatbelts into a hidden hazard. The Met Office has forecast an exceptional period of warmth, with heatwave-like conditions anticipated this bank holiday weekend, persisting until Tuesday before easing from Wednesday onwards.
Seatbelt Burns a Major Concern
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, is advising motorists to be mindful of the dangers lurking inside their vehicles. He explains that seatbelts are a major cause for concern during any heatwave. While they are lifesavers on the road, the metal parts can heat up in direct sunlight and cause serious burns to bare flesh, particularly for young children and pets.
Simple Precautions to Prevent Burns
Conway recommends keeping a piece of cloth or a towel in the car to drape over the metal buckle of the seatbelt, reducing the risk of burns. Using light-coloured material and plugging the buckle back in can help keep it out of direct sunlight. He also advises letting the car cool down as much as possible before use by opening doors and running the air conditioning for a while.
The Greenhouse Effect Inside Cars
Driving on a sweltering day can feel like climbing into a furnace. Vehicles frequently reach scorching temperatures inside as sunlight pours through the windscreen and windows. Heat is absorbed by dark interior surfaces like seats and the dashboard, then radiated back, creating a mini greenhouse effect that can be deeply uncomfortable and hazardous.
Additional Tips for Hot Weather Driving
Reflective window covers can help prevent the temperature from rising too much, especially for leather seats. Drivers may also consider turning the steering wheel 180 degrees when parking so the top section is out of direct sunlight. Journeys should be kept short when travelling with children or pets, with stops for fresh air and hydration. Never leave a child or animal in a car on a hot day.
First Aid for Burns
If a burn occurs, acting quickly minimizes damage. Cool the burn immediately with cool, running water—clean bottled water is a handy alternative if you are driving and cannot reach a sink. Once cool, apply a clean, dry dressing or cloth to cover the burn.
