Drivers are being warned not to leave hand sanitiser in vehicles during hot weather because they could cause a fire.
With temperatures soaring to a sweltering 30C today (Wednesday) and tomorrow, NHS property services are alerting people to the risks of having alcohol based hand sanitisers in cars.
The NHS body which manages hospitals across the country, has received a number of reports of hand sanitiser causing blazes after being left in vehicles in the hot weather, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Dramatic images have been released by the organisation showing a car completely destroyed after a fire broke out.
Experts say the alcohol becomes heated and results in flammable vapours being released.
These vapours reach their ‘flashpoint’ and then ignite in normal air conditions, setting fire to flammable components within the car.
However, a spokesperson for the authority was keen to stress people should continue to use hand santisier where they cannot use soap and water to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Experts from CE Safety have also issued a warning about hand sanitisers, on what is the hottest day of the year so far.
A spokesperson from CE Safety said: “Our advice is to remove alcohol-based hand sanitisers when the British public leave their cars.
“If it is 25°C outside, the estimated vehicle interior air temperature can reach up to 50°C if left for a couple of hours.
"So, it is no surprise to see pictures circulating on social media showing severely damaged vehicles due to hand sanitiser bottles that had ignited inside a vehicle sitting in direct sunlight.”
CE Safety provides complete fire safety training, including fire marshal training and hot work passport, along with a range of health and safety courses.
The spokesperson added: “As hand hygiene is one of the most effective methods of tackling coronavirus, we recommend continuing to use hand sanitiser as part of your hygiene routine where soap and water can’t be used.
“But please bear in mind that there may be a fire risk if the alcohol-based hand sanitiser is left in the car.
“One alternative solution might be to use disposable gloves whilst in the car which may remove the need for hand sanitiser. Just remember to throw them away immediately after use.”
