Is It Safe to Sleep in a Car with the Heater On in Winter?
2 Answers
It is not safe to sleep in a car with the heater on in winter, for the following reasons: 1. When the engine is running, incomplete combustion of fuel can produce high concentrations of carbon monoxide. While the car is moving, the air convection through the air conditioning system keeps the carbon monoxide concentration inside the car low; 2. When the car is stationary but the heater remains on with the windows closed, the carbon monoxide emitted by the engine can accumulate and increase in concentration. Therefore, it is best not to sleep in the car with the heater on when parked; 3. In winter, many car owners keep the windows tightly closed and the heater running for extended periods to maintain warmth inside the car. While this ensures a comfortable temperature and protects against the cold, it can also easily lead to air pollution inside the vehicle.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I must say that sleeping in the car with the heater on during winter is really unsafe. When the engine is running, it produces carbon monoxide, a gas that is invisible and odorless. Accumulating inside the car, it can cause you to lose consciousness or even be fatal, especially if all the windows are closed. I've heard of many people who have gotten into danger or even died because of this. Idling the engine also wastes fuel, damages components, and increases the risk of carbon buildup. If you must rest in the car, it's safer to turn off the engine, crack a window for ventilation, and use a thick blanket to stay warm. Remember, short naps are fine, but don't rely on the heater—prioritizing safety first and preventing tragedies is the wise approach. The key is to have safety awareness and not take shortcuts for convenience.
