Last June, my husband and I spent time in Palm Springs when the temperature hovered around 47-C — that works out to almost 117 Fahrenheit.
It was so hot, planes weren’t taking off or landing at the airport, but we had things to do and places to see so relied on the air conditioned comfort of our rental car to get from point A to point B.
And while it might not get that hot in Vancouver, the city did just receive its first extreme heat warning of the year — and that was in mid-June. So here are some ideas for keeping your vehicle cool, or at least coolish, depending on the day. And remember, even if you follow all these suggestions, there is never any reason to leave a child or pet unattended in a car or truck in warm or hot weather — ever.
Park in the shade
This is an easy one. You might have to walk a little further, but the shade from a tree, building or overpass helps keep the interior temperature of your vehicle down especially if you can leave the windows open a crack. Before you get back into the car, open the doors and windows for a couple of minutes to let some hot air escape.
Windshield sun shade
You can spend a lot on a custom-built shade that fits your windshield exactly or you can hit the dollar store and shop for bargains that will work almost as well. They’re also available at many chain stores such as Canadian Tire.
Car seat covers
This tip is especially important if you have leather or vinyl seats and like to wear shorts or a skirt in the summer without burning the backs of your thighs. If you can’t afford fitted covers, throw a blanket over your seat.
Window shades
These are especially important if you have a baby or children in the car because young skin can burn so easily through a car window. Styles available include pop out, pull down, suction cup, static cling or semi-permanent with a film you can buy and install yourself.
Cool from the bottom up
Because heat rises, it’s important when you first get into a hot car to close the top air vents, open the bottom vents and adjust your fan setting to maximum. That will push all that hot air up and out your open windows. Once your car has cooled off open up those top vents again.
@sthomas10
