Dealing with Heat

Although many people still ignore the warnings, it is common knowledge that animals and humans will die if left in a hot car, a study conducted by the RACC Automobile Association, in conjunction with the Swiss Automobile Club, has shed light on some of the effects of vehicles in the sun.

Among the key findings of the study, it has been confirmed that if a vehicle left in direct sunlight, where the outside temperature is 35°C, standing without air conditioning, the inside temperature of the vehicle will reach a dangerous 55°C, or 131°F.

A study in America stated that high environmental temperatures can be dangerous to the human body. In the range of 90 to 105°F, heat cramps and exhaustion may occur. Between 105 and 130°F, heat exhaustion is almost certain, and environmental temperature over 130°F is likely to lead to heatstroke.

The RACC study wanted to confirm if the colour of a car can impact the internal temperature. They chose two different coloured vehicles for this comparison, a white one and a black one. They found that in the black car, the temperature reached up to 17°F more than the white one.

As for the myths concerning leaving the windows open a fraction to decrease the temperature inside, the results under lab conditions revealed just a 2 degree difference, which is why the advice of never leaving a pet in a parked car, even with the windows open, is such an important one to heed.

The advice concluded from the report is to try to remain stationary in direct sunlight for as shorter time as possible. Parking in the shade or under a carport will help lower the temperature.

Using windscreen shades when parked will also help lower the internal temperature, as will covering exposed areas such as the dashboard, and especially metallic features inside the vehicle, which can cause burns when touched.

Skin damage can occur from a temperature of 45°C. The internal elements like the dashboard, the seats, the steering wheel, or gear lever can reach temperatures approaching 80°C if they are not protected.

Never leave anybody inside a car in the sun, although children and animals are more susceptible to damage caused by heat.

Leaving the windows open, if the place you are parked is secure, can reduce the temperature slightly, as can choosing a lighter colour car when you purchase it.

Take time before you start your trip to open all the vehicle doors and windows and let fresh air flow through for a few minutes before entering. This will help to avoid high temperatures during the trip. Be conscious of security if you do this though.

You should also be aware that using air conditioning can also be detrimental, especially if the difference between the interior and exterior temperatures are severe, so make sure you adjust the setting accordingly.

If you´re wondering the best temperature to set your air conditioning to, the DGT recommends settings between 22 to 24 degrees, whilst the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE) the recommended would be between 21 and 23 degrees. If the air conditioner is above or below these limits, it will increase the fatigue of the driver and his reaction time will be slower, so there will be a greater probability of suffering accidents on the road.