Drivers have been warned not to use blankets and towels to keep vehicle batteries warm - after a car burst into flames. Firefighters were called out after an incident involving a Hyundai car.
West Midlands Fire Service said the items were used by the driver after a journey. It said the motorist thought it meant the car would start easily - however it resulted in the car going on fire.
The fire service shared a photo of the fire damaged vehicle on social media as part of a safety warning to motorists, Coventry Live reports. It said: "Please don’t try this at home - or anywhere!
"The driver used blankets and towels to keep the battery warm after a journey, so the car would start easily. Firefighters from Foleshill extinguished the resulting fire. Don't do this - it won't get you to your destination any quicker."
Commenters on Facebook slammed the driver for their actions - with many joking that they had in fact achieved their goal of keeping the battery warm, albeit not quite as intended.
Pete Smith said: I"ve never heard of this one...the car will start in our coldest temperature if the battery's good enough." Bill Rice said: "No need these days. Antifreeze is so improved from the days you had to do this and the little heater under the engine."
Jane Unitt said: "Well it certainly kept it warm lol". And Charlie CH said: "Well in fairness they have achieved part of their aim... the battery was still "warm" but I doubt it'll start as they desired."
