Getting locked out of your car stinks. It happens to the best of us: keys get misplaced in the morning rush, batteries die in fobs at the worst times, and sometimes car doors just malfunction. But the absolute worst feeling that can compound a lockout situation is knowing you’ve left something important inside, like greasy takeout that’s about to turn rancid or irreplaceable documents that are crucial for an upcoming appointment.
So, to avoid that extra layer of stress on an already frustrating day, let’s break down some of the things you really shouldn’t leave sitting in your car unattended.
Your Pets and Your Kids
Leaving pets or kids in the car, even for a short time, is dangerous and an absolute no-go. Cars can heat up rapidly, turning into ovens, especially during summer. Temperatures can soar to deadly levels in minutes, posing severe risks to their health. Even with the windows cracked, the interior heats up faster than you’d expect.
Besides the temperature risk, children and pets can accidentally engage the vehicle’s controls, leading to potential accidents. Additionally, if your car gets locked with them inside, panic sets in – for both you and them. It’s always best to take your kids and pets with you, no matter how quick you think your errand will be. Safety comes first, always.
Valuable Personal Documents
Documents like your passport, social security card, and financial statements are sensitive and valuable. Leaving them in your car makes them easy targets for thieves. A smashed window can lead to identity theft, which is a nightmare to resolve.
Apart from theft, documents can get damaged by heat or moisture. Imagine needing a document urgently, only to find it crumpled or unreadable. Keeping important papers at home or in a secure place is essential. If you must carry them, take them with you when you leave the car. It’s a small step that prevents significant headaches later.
Important Medications
Medications are vital for many people, and extreme temperatures can affect their potency. Leaving them in a hot car can degrade their effectiveness, making them unsafe to use. Cold weather isn’t great either – freezing can ruin certain meds.
Beyond temperature, accessibility is key. In emergencies, having your medication within reach is crucial. If you lock them in the car, you’re left in a precarious situation. Always keep your medications on you or store them where conditions are stable. It makes sure that they’re effective and ready when you need them.
ANY Food
Food should never be left in your car. Hot or cold weather can spoil it quickly, leading to unpleasant smells and potential health hazards. Spoiled food attracts pests, turning your car into an odor-filled mess.
Even packaged snacks aren’t safe. Heat can cause packaging to burst or leak, and cold can make some items inedible. Plus, there’s the inconvenience of dealing with a smelly, sticky mess if something spills or spoils. Take your food with you to avoid these problems. It’s better for your car and your health.
Electronics
Electronics like laptops, tablets, and phones are prime targets for thieves. A visible gadget in your car can tempt someone to break in, causing damage and loss. Besides theft, extreme temperatures can harm electronics. Heat may cause battery leaks or screen damage, while cold can affect performance.
Leaving electronics in your car also risks losing valuable data. Back up your devices regularly and take them with you whenever possible. If you must leave them, hide them from view and park in secure, well-lit areas. But remember, the safest place for your gadgets is not in the car.
Purses or Wallets
Purses and wallets contain essentials like cash, IDs, and credit cards. Leaving them in your car is a gamble you don’t want to take. Thieves know where to look, and a quick smash-and-grab can leave you without critical items.
Even if you think you’ve hidden your purse well, determined thieves may still find it. The aftermath of losing your wallet involves canceling cards, replacing IDs, and dealing with potential fraud. It’s a hassle that’s easily avoided by taking your purse or wallet with you, no matter how short your errand.
Aerosol Cans
Aerosol cans, such as deodorants or cleaning sprays, can explode in high temperatures. Cars get incredibly hot, and aerosol cans can’t handle that kind of heat. An exploding can doesn’t just ruin your car’s interior – it can cause injury, too.
Cold isn’t much better. Freezing temperatures can cause the contents to expand and the can to burst. The risk isn’t worth the convenience of leaving them behind. Always take aerosol cans with you or store them in a place where temperature extremes aren’t a factor.
Batteries
Batteries don’t fare well in extreme temperatures. Heat can cause them to leak or even explode, while cold weather can reduce their efficiency and lifespan. Whether it’s spare car batteries, phone batteries, or AA batteries for your devices, leaving them in your car is risky. Battery leaks can damage your car’s upholstery and pose health risks. If you must keep spare batteries handy, bring them inside when you park. It’s a simple step that protects both your batteries and your vehicle.
Locked Out? Get Back in Your Car With Car Keyline!
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we get locked out. When that happens, having professionals on your side is a lifesaver. Car Keyline is home to mobile auto locksmiths for Bucks County, PA, who can get you back into your car quickly and efficiently. Our expert team is ready to help, no matter where you are.
Trust Car Keyline to get you back on the road fast. We’re just a call away, meaning you’ll never be stuck outside your car for long. Contact us today.