On a warm day, stepping into a parked car can feel like entering an oven. But what many people don’t realize is just how fast temperatures inside a vehicle can rise—turning a seemingly harmless situation into a life-threatening emergency.
The Science Behind Car Heat
Vehicles heat up rapidly due to the greenhouse effect. Sunlight passes through the windows, warming the dashboard, seats, and other surfaces. These objects then radiate heat, trapping it inside the car. Within minutes, the temperature can soar far beyond the outside air temperature.
How Fast Does a Car Heat Up?
- On an 80°F day, the temperature inside a car can reach 99°F in just 10 minutes.
- On a 94°F day, the interior can hit 113°F in 10 minutes and 137°F in an hour.
- Even on cooler days, a parked car can still become dangerously hot due to direct sunlight.
The Risks of Overheating
Extreme heat inside a vehicle can lead to heatstroke, which occurs when the body’s temperature rises to dangerous levels. Children and pets are especially vulnerable, as their bodies heat up much faster than adults.
Preventing Tragedies
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
- Park in shaded areas or use sunshades to reduce heat buildup while you and your precious cargo are away from the vehicle.
- Use safety devices like Precious Cargo Alert to receive reminders and alerts when exiting your vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Heat-related accidents are preventable, but they happen far too often. By understanding how quickly vehicles heat up and taking proactive steps, we can protect our loved ones from unnecessary harm.