Avoid leaving these gadgets, flammable items inside parked vehicles 

As temperatures continue to rise across parts of the country, motorists are being advised not to leave battery-powered gadgets, flammable materials, and other heat-sensitive items inside parked vehicles, as prolonged exposure to extreme heat may damage devices and, in some cases, increase the risk of fire or explosions.

In an advisory, TechWatch PH listed power banks, lithium-ion batteries, laptops, mobile phones, vape devices, rechargeable flashlights, and wireless earbuds among items best not left inside parked vehicles, especially during extreme heat

Even when no fire risk exists, prolonged heat exposure can permanently reduce battery lifespan, warp components, or damage screens and adhesives.

These devices may swell, leak, overheat, or in rare cases experience thermal runaway, a dangerous condition that can lead to smoke or fire.

Pressurized containers such as aerosol sprays, butane canisters, lighters, camping gas, paint thinners, and some cleaning chemicals should also never be left inside enclosed vehicles, especially during peak daytime heat.

The advisory came after a vehicle recently caught fire in Floridablanca, Pampanga. 

Portable fuel containers, disposable batteries, and certain power tools may also become hazardous when exposed to prolonged heat buildup inside vehicles parked under direct sunlight.

TechWatch PH Editor-in-Tech Art Samaniego said many motorists still underestimate how quickly temperatures inside vehicles can rise under direct sunlight.

“Some motorists think these are harmless everyday items, but once trapped inside a parked vehicle for hours, they may become serious fire hazards,” Samaniego said.

Samaniego also reminded motorists to avoid leaving medicines, alcohol-based products, and other temperature-sensitive items inside vehicles, as heat may affect their quality, effectiveness, or safety.

“People often focus only on gadgets, but even common household or personal items may become dangerous once exposed to excessive heat inside a sealed vehicle,” he added.

The advisory also reminded motorists to check vehicle interiors before leaving, especially during long parking periods outdoors, and to store sensitive items in cooler environments whenever possible.