Is it safe to sleep in a car without starting the engine?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to sleep in a car without starting the engine, especially for extended periods, due to the risk of oxygen deprivation and suffocation. If you must sleep in the car, ensure the windows are open. Below are some precautions for sleeping in a car. Ventilation: Maintaining air circulation is crucial. Opening the windows is an excellent option, but personal safety must also be considered. If the window gap is too large, it may attract unwanted attention from criminals, so a small gap is sufficient. Use the external air circulation mode: When resting or sleeping, avoid using the internal air circulation mode. It is advisable to switch to the external air circulation mode with natural airflow and minimize the use of the air conditioning compressor. Choosing a parking location: When traveling, rest stops may not always be in fixed locations, and you might end up parking in a confined space. Small spaces are more prone to carbon monoxide buildup. Underground parking garages, in particular, have poor air circulation and lower oxygen levels compared to open areas. Therefore, try to choose open spaces for resting and avoid parking on roadways or curves.
I have experienced the need for a short nap after long-distance driving. Theoretically, it is possible to sleep in the car without starting the engine, but the key is to pay attention to safety and comfort. Without the engine running, air circulation deteriorates, especially in enclosed spaces or underground parking lots, where carbon monoxide may accumulate, posing a risk of poisoning. Temperature regulation is also crucial—for example, the car can become uncomfortably cold in winter and unbearably hot and stuffy in summer, potentially affecting sleep quality. I recommend finding a safe parking spot, slightly rolling down the windows to maintain ventilation, and ensuring the surrounding area is open or well-ventilated. Additionally, avoid using electrical devices like interior lights or chargers to prevent draining the battery and affecting the next startup. In short, a brief rest is fine, but avoid doing this for extended periods, prioritizing health and driving safety.
