Muscat: With the temperatures rising during the summer season, safety authorities are reminding car drivers about the importance of not leaving hazardous materials inside their vehicles. Many individuals tend to store various items in their cars for easy access, with some even considering their vehicles as a second home or office. However, certain items left in cars can pose a severe threat, particularly in extremely hot temperatures.
Youssef al Salmi, a chemical safety professional, highlighted several items that car owners commonly leave in their vehicles. Al Salmi emphasised the dangers associated with camping enthusiasts who store tools such as small and medium gas cylinders, kerosene, or other flammable materials used for igniting fire. These items are highly hazardous and should be promptly removed from cars, only to be taken along when necessary.
Additionally, Al Salmi warned about the risk of leaving cigarette lighters in cars, as the small amount of gas they contain can ignite a significant fire under high temperatures. He further cautioned against storing perfumes on the cars, particularly near the glass, as the concentrated heat exposure can trigger their explosive properties, especially during summer months.
capable of causing fires
Al Salmi further advised against leaving water glasses inside vehicles, especially in direct sunlight. When exposed to intense heat, these glasses can act as lenses, concentrating sunlight into a high-energy beam capable of causing fires. Al Salmi also highlighted the potential danger of certain deodorants containing flammable substances, which, when exposed to extreme heat, may lead to explosions.
Moreover, Al Salmi emphasised the risk associated with leaving eyeglasses inside cars, as the lenses can concentrate sunlight into a focal point, potentially sparking a fire within the vehicle. He also warned against leaving compressed packages, including air fresheners, insecticide packages, car polish, and rust removers, as these often contain flammable chemicals. High temperatures can cause carbonated beverages to expand within tightly-sealed packages, leading to explosions and shattered car windows as well.
To mitigate heat-related risks and prevent potential incidents, Al Salmi recommended keeping car windows slightly open (semi-closed) while the vehicle is unattended. This practice allows for air circulation and leakage, ultimately helping to cool the car’s interior upon return.
In light of these safety concerns, car owners are strongly urged to remove any potentially hazardous items from their vehicles, especially during the summer season. It recommends exercising caution and adopting responsible practices to minimize the risk of fire incidents.
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