People are getting used to bringing along their hand sanitizers to protect themselves against the COVID-19, especially during this time. However, there is a hidden risk of leaving hand sanitizer in the car, especially in the hot summer. According to CBS, a report has shown that flammable liquids and direct sunlight can make it explode.
Photo source: Sinchew
The Texas Department of Public Safety shared a photo from the Western Lakes Fire District in Wisconsin last week that the side door of the driver's seat was severely damaged. The damage was caused by the hand sanitizer that was left in the hot vehicle that reached 95 degrees Fahrenheit and caused an explosion.
According to CBS,
“What happens with flammables, is they turn to vapor, and they vaporize into a confined space which was a car. And then if there was any introduction of static electricity and that could simply be somebody getting in and pulling down on a sweater or jacket or anything like that,” explained by retired Dallas firefighter Sherrie Wilson.
It is suggested that the hand sanitizer could be less effective when it is left under hot temperatures.
“If the alcohol evaporates, the hand sanitizer is less efficient. It is the alcohol that kills the germs,” said Dr. Mihaela C. Stefan with UTD’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.
We are advised to bring along our hand sanitizer with us all the time to avoid of tragedy happens as well as not to lose its effectiveness.
Cover photo: Sinchew
