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“Your car becomes an oven,” warns VAB

10:28 06/06/2014

The largest Flemish automobile association VAB is urging motorists to be extremely vigilant with parked cars this weekend in view of the high temperatures expected across Belgium. VAB performed a test on a warm, sunny day, with identical cars in different colours. After an hour in the sun, the temperature inside the cars was at least 24% higher, and after just six hours the temperature inside the black car reached 50°C, and in the white car 46°C. “Your car becomes an oven,” warns VAB.

Regardless of the colour of the car, the heat can rise to dangerous temperatures, especially for babies. "A baby’s temperature rises faster than an adult’s. A temperature of 42°C can be fatal for babies,” said VAB, which also warned against leaving dogs in parked cars for the same reason.

"Leaving a window slightly open does not help. Anyone who sees a baby or pet in a parked car must act quickly, even smash a window if necessary. Every minute is crucial,” says VAB.

Written by Robyn Boyle