Heatwave chaos: Drivers urged not to leave pets in cars as UK braces for hottest weather of the year

Due to the spike in hot weather, the AA has urged drivers to not leave pets alone in cars as the temperature can be even hotter inside the vehicle.

The warning comes after the AA was forced to rescue pets and other car occupants as many as five times a day during warm periods.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

Edmund King, AA President, said: "Be aware of the dangers and never leave children, the elderly and animals in over-heated vehicles."

Offering advice to drivers, the AA explained that they should carry extra water, at least one litre per person, and the means to create shade, such as sunscreens or even just towels.

Meanwhile, keeping the vehicle well-ventilated and in the shade can help bring down the temperature and make passengers more comfortable.

“Drivers should also create a deliberate routine for ensuring that car keys remain on the driver’s person and not locked in the car,” the AA added.

Tyres are also more likely to blow on hot roads as engines overheat. To combat this, drivers should check their tyre pressures at cooler times of the day.

A survey by the AA found that concerns over transport and dogs during the heat was a key issue for roughly a third of AA members.

A further 42.2 per cent of AA users said they were taking more in-car precautions to protect the animals during higher heat temperatures.

Due to the heatwave, 28.2 per cent of drivers have chosen not to carry their pets with them in the car.

King added that severe heat could cause “considerable problems” for many older vehicles without air-conditioning or recent servicing.

He said: “If your car breaks down when temperatures are high, it’s even more important than usual that we get to you as quickly as we can.

“The quickest way for our members to report a breakdown is through the AA breakdown app.

“Knowing your exact location is vital to us. Keeping yourself and other occupants hydrated can help lower body temperatures in hot weather.”

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• Drivers demand urgent law changes as furious motorists deface 20mph speed limit signs across Wales
• Driving law changes could see major updates to supermarket car parks introduced amid urgent motorist demands
• Elderly drivers issued urgent car insurance warning amid soaring costs as motorists could save £549

The UK is expected to see temperatures reach as high as 29 degrees this week, with drivers and passengers urged to take extra care while travelling.