Many of us have probably been in a situation where we’ve been caught out without a hotel room and had to spend the night in our car. Or maybe you’ve been driving for a long time and just needed to catch a quick nap. But is sleeping in a car with the A/C on a safe option? Let’s take a look.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The danger of sleeping in a car with the air conditioning running is often underestimated. When cars are left idling in an enclosed space, there is a risk of carbon monoxide buildup. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is harmful if inhaled in large quantities. Even at lower concentrations, it can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In extreme cases, it can lead to coma or death. For this reason, it is important to be aware of the risks of sleeping in a car with the air conditioning running.
When you’re sleeping, your body relaxes and your natural defenses are down. This means that you’re more vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning if there’s a problem with the car’s exhaust system. Even if there’s no problem with the exhaust system, there is still a risk of carbon monoxide exposure from other vehicles if you’re parked in an enclosed space such as a garage.
If you must sleep in a car, be sure to crack open a window to allow for proper ventilation. And never leave the car running in an enclosed garage. By taking these precautions, you can help to keep yourself and your family safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Dehydration
When we think of sleeping in the car, most of us envision a road trip taking naps between destinations in order to make better time. However, many people don’t realize that sleeping in the car with the air conditioning on can actually be quite dangerous. Some air conditioners can cause dehydration. This is because they remove moisture from the air as well as heat. When the body loses too much moisture, it can lead to dehydration, which can cause a range of symptoms including dizziness, headache, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can even lead to hospitalization. So next time you’re considering catching some Z’s in the car, be sure to open the windows and stay hydrated.
Overheating
When it’s hot outside, the temptation to sleep in the car with the air conditioning running can be strong. However, this can actually be extremely dangerous. If the engine is left running while someone sleeps in the car, it can overheat and cause serious illness or even death. Additionally, if the car is parked in a garage with the doors closed, it can quickly fill up with carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes. For these reasons, it’s always best to find a cool, comfortable place to sleep indoors when the temperatures outside are high. So, is it safe to sleep in the car with the A/C switched on? No, it’s not recommended. There are several potential hazards associated with doing so you should avoid doing so!