Drivers are being warned that everyday items left inside cars and vans during hot weather could cause fires, explosions or serious damage, and potentially invalidate their insurance. With temperatures set to soar, experts say many motorists are unknowingly putting themselves at risk by leaving common items in their vehicle that can become dangerous in extreme heat.
Five Items to Remove Immediately
Experts at Dayinsure, one of the UK's leading short-term car insurance providers, have outlined five items car drivers should remove immediately to stay safe and avoid costly consequences. Chris Bibby, CEO of Dayinsure, said: "Many drivers don't realise just how quickly temperatures inside a vehicle can rise, especially during a heatwave. What may seem like harmless, everyday items can become serious hazards when exposed to extreme heat. If damage, fire or an accident is caused by negligence, for example leaving hazardous items in extreme heat, unsafe vehicle conditions or breaches of the Highway Code, insurers may reduce or reject claims entirely. Taking a few simple precautions, like removing heat-sensitive items, parking in the shade, and ensuring your vehicle is clear and secure, can make a significant difference in preventing avoidable damage and keeping you protected on the road."
Aerosol Cans
Pressurised aerosol cans, including deodorants, sprays and cleaning products, can expand in high temperatures and potentially explode. According to UK fire safety guidance, heat can cause pressurised containers to rupture, posing a fire risk, particularly in enclosed spaces like cars and vans. If an explosion causes damage or leads to a fire, insurers may refuse to pay out if it's deemed preventable negligence.
Fizzy Drinks and Sealed Cans
Carbonated drinks can expand in heat and burst, coating interiors in sticky liquid and potentially damaging electrics or controls. While not illegal, this could distract the driver if it occurs while driving, and cause damage that may not be covered if insurers believe reasonable care wasn't taken. If the explosion distracts you while driving, you could face a fine of up to £5,000 for careless driving under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Phones, Vapes and Lithium Battery Devices
Lithium-ion batteries, often found in phones, tablets, power banks and vapes, are particularly sensitive to heat and motorists need to be aware of the dangers of leaving them unattended. The UK's National Fire Chiefs Council warns that lithium batteries can overheat, catch fire and explode in extreme conditions. If a fire is traced back to an avoidable hazard like this, insurers may question whether the vehicle was properly maintained and secured.
Reflective Items (Mirrors, Bottles, Sunglasses)
Objects that reflect or refract sunlight, such as mirrors, glass bottles or even some sunglasses, can intensify sunlight into concentrated beams. Fire services warn that this can create enough heat to scorch vehicle interiors and ignite materials in extreme cases. This type of damage may be considered preventable by insurers, particularly if items were left in direct sunlight.
Loose Clutter and Flammable Materials
Loose items such as packaging, paper, cloths or work materials can shift while driving and interfere with controls, and increase fire load inside the vehicle. Under Rule 100 of the Highway Code, drivers must ensure loads and items are secure and do not pose a danger. Crucially, if unsecured or hazardous items contribute to an accident, insurers may refuse a claim on the basis the vehicle was not in a safe condition. Drivers can be fined up to £100 and given 3 penalty points for loose clutter. If the mess causes a serious accident, the penalty increases to £5,000 and 9 points.
