Is it problematic to leave liquor in a hot car?
2 Answers
Leaving liquor in a hot car is problematic. Here are the impacts of storing liquor in the trunk: 1. High temperature poses risks: Liquor typically has a high alcohol concentration and a low ignition point, making it generally flammable. Additionally, if a car is parked outdoors for an extended period, the interior temperature can become quite high, especially in the trunk area, which is less ventilated and thus hotter than other parts of the car. After exposure to direct sunlight, temperatures can even reach 40-50 degrees Celsius. 2. Affects taste: If liquor is stored in the trunk for a long time, chemical reactions can occur, leading to spoilage, which significantly impacts the liquor's taste.
I'm a car enthusiast and often share safety tips. Leaving baijiu (Chinese liquor) in a hot car can be quite problematic. The temperature inside a car can get extremely high, especially in summer when it's parked under direct sunlight in an enclosed space, creating a sweltering environment. Baijiu contains alcohol, which is highly volatile and expands easily. The increased pressure inside the bottle can cause it to explode or the cap to pop off, spilling alcohol. If this alcohol comes into contact with car wiring or flammable materials, it can ignite a fire. This is a real danger—I've heard of actual incidents where a car was completely burned down just because a bottle of liquor was forgotten inside. The humidity inside a car is also high, which can cause the baijiu to spoil, turning sour or producing harmful substances. Leaving it in the car for long periods can also damage the interior, as the alcohol may corrode the seats or leave behind unpleasant odors. So, always check before parking and never leave any alcoholic beverages in the car. If you accidentally do, don’t open the bottle immediately upon returning—let it cool down first or check for any cracks. Safe driving isn’t just about how you drive; it also involves proper management of items in your car.
