Motorists have been told to remove one item from their vehicles in extreme temperatures this week, with road users possibly at serious risk. According to experts, rechargeable vape devices can become a “ticking time bomb” in hot weather, which could become a major concern for road users getting behind the wheel this week.
Rechargeable vape retailer, WickdUp, has warned that the lithium-ion batteries fitted inside the product could become dangerously unstable. They warn that devices left on dashboards, seats, or in gloveboxes can quickly turn into serious fire hazards. The products are most at risk in temperatures well above 30 degrees, which could come to fruition later this week.
Mike Byers, Rechargeable Device Expert at WickdUp explained: “We’ve all left a phone or vape in the car at some point. But in this heat? That simple habit could spark a disaster. Take your devices with you — it’s a tiny step that could save you thousands.”
According to The Met Office, temperatures are set to hit the high 20s in London on Wednesday and Thursday. However, meteorologists have predicted the capital could hit 31 Celsius on Friday, above the recommended threshold for vapes.
Mike added: “Imagine stepping out for five minutes — and coming back to smoke, damage, or worse. With travel season in full swing, don’t let one small mistake ruin your holiday, leave you stranded or write off your car.”
WickdUpc stressed that road users should always take rechargeable devices out of a vehicle, even if they are only planning on stepping away from their car for just a few minutes.
Meanwhile, road users should never leave electronics in direct sunlight, such as on the dashboard or the seats. Drivers should also avoid storing gadgets in glove compartments as heat can build up rapidly.
Also, vapers should make sure to regularly check devices for any signs of swelling or cracks. The experts warned that some car insurance policies may not cover fire damage caused by improperly stored electronics.
Markus Lindblad, director of the tobacco-free nicotine pouch and vape retailer Haypp, has previously stressed motorists could have to pay out £1,000s in vape damage.
He explained: “If a vape causes a car fire, owners may not be able to claim on their insurance. 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."
