Is it safe to leave hand sanitizer in your car? This is a question that many people have been asking themselves, especially with the ongoing pandemic. Hand sanitizer has become an essential item for everyone, but can it be safely left in a car? Let’s delve into this topic and find out.
Hand sanitizers are typically made up of alcohol, which is highly flammable. When left in a car, the temperature inside can rise significantly, especially during hot summer days or when the car is parked in direct sunlight. This can lead to a potentially dangerous situation where the hand sanitizer could ignite and cause a fire.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), temperatures inside a parked car can reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Celsius) within just an hour. This high temperature can cause hand sanitizers to evaporate and potentially ignite if they come into contact with an open flame or a spark.
However, there are some precautions you can take to minimize the risk of leaving hand sanitizer in your car. Firstly, always keep the hand sanitizer in a sealed container. This will help prevent evaporation and reduce the risk of ignition. Secondly, avoid leaving the hand sanitizer in direct sunlight or near the car’s air conditioning vents, as these areas can cause the temperature to rise rapidly.
Additionally, consider storing the hand sanitizer in a cooler area of your car, such as the trunk or a compartment that is not exposed to direct sunlight. This will help keep the temperature lower and reduce the risk of ignition. It’s also a good idea to check the temperature inside your car regularly, especially during hot weather, to ensure that it remains safe for your hand sanitizer.
Lastly, be mindful of other items you may have in your car. Some items, such as cigarettes, can increase the risk of fire when combined with hand sanitizers. Always keep these items separate to minimize the potential dangers.
In conclusion, while it is not entirely safe to leave hand sanitizer in your car, there are ways to minimize the risks. By taking the necessary precautions and storing the hand sanitizer properly, you can ensure that both you and your vehicle remain safe.
