As the UK faces its third heatwave of the year with temperatures set to exceed 30C, experts are warning drivers not to leave the item behind
People are urged not to leave the item behind in their car (stock image)(Image: Getty)
Motorists across the UK are being warned against leaving one specific item in their vehicle each time they step out this week, as the country’s third heatwave of the year takes hold. The caution follows forecasts predicting temperatures of 30C or above over the next few days, with experts warning that leaving the item in a car could trigger an “explosion”.
As scorching conditions return to the UK, specialists are warning drivers against leaving their vapes in the car. The dramatic shift in temperature can cause the vape battery to explode, sparking a fire and potentially resulting in £1,000s worth of damage, as well as serious health risks.
Markus Lindblad, Head of Legal and External Affairs from Haypp, has highlighted the hazards of leaving vapes in a vehicle as temperatures begin to climb. He also advises on the appropriate course of action should your vape overheat.
On a sweltering day, the interior of a parked car can reach temperatures 30C to 40C higher than those recorded outside. When a vehicle is sealed shut, the windows function like a greenhouse, capturing sunlight and causing temperatures to soar within minutes, reports the Express.
Can a vape battery explode in hot weather?
Markus says: “All vapes require a battery to function, and these batteries are very sensitive to any extreme change in temperature, especially heat. If you leave your vape in the car, and it’s exposed to the sun for a long period of time, then the vape battery is at risk of swelling, leaking and in some cases, can potentially cause the battery to explode.”
Can a vape leak juice?
Markus explains that extreme temperatures inside a vehicle can cause the e-liquid in vapes to become thinner or the vape tank to expand, resulting in leaks. A leaking vape will not only leave a sticky residue throughout the car’s interior that proves challenging to remove, but in certain instances, it can also cause skin irritation.
“If the vape has leaked in the car then it’s advised not to use it and dispose of it correctly”, he said.
Can leaving a vape in extreme heat damage it?
Markus says: “Leaving a vape exposed to heat can also damage parts of the vapes, impacting the performance of the device, reducing the battery lifespan, and ruining the coils, screen or tank.”
Would I be able to claim on insurance if my vape caused a fire?
If a vape ignites a car fire, owners may find themselves unable to file an insurance claim. Markus says: “Some policies might have clauses that exclude coverage for fires caused by vaping devices, arguing that you increased the vehicle’s fire risk, resulting in the car owner paying £1,000s worth of damage.”
What to do if you leave your vape in the car?
Should you leave your vape in a sweltering vehicle for an extended period, it’s essential to cool the device down safely by placing it in a cool, dark place, advises Markus. He adds: “Alternatively, wipe it down with a cold damp cloth and let it air dry. If your vape has overheated, do not, under any circumstances, place the vape in water to cool it down, as this could increase the risk of the battery exploding.”
Where is the best place to leave a vape in a car?
It’s always advisable to remove a vape from the vehicle, Markus states. If this isn’t feasible, then it’s recommended to either park in a shaded area, or store it in the glove compartment away from direct sunlight.
Vapes ought to be kept at room temperature, so any fluctuations or abrupt temperature changes can damage the battery and pose a fire risk.
Can you vape while driving in the UK?
Vaping while at the wheel isn’t explicitly illegal in the UK. However, if a vapour cloud obscures visibility or if you’re distracted by the device, police may charge you with ‘driving without due care and attention.
This can result in fines starting from £100 and three penalty points, to as high as £2,500 and a potential driving ban.
