Summer car Safety: GPS can do harm as well as good

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Vernon L. Fowler Jr.
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Many readers would probably doubt that having a global positioning system mounted in their vehicles could be harmful in any way. Unfortunately, the potential damage to your car is a danger that does exist; especially during the summer season.

A GPS is powered by what is called a lithium battery. When exposed to extreme heat, this battery can overheat and eventually explode.

The reason why? The inside of a car can reach up to 138 degrees Fahrenheit in just 90 minutes. That is definitely not far-fetched considering how high the temperatures can get here in Florida.

It is very common for people to install a GPS in their vehicles and never remove it from the car when it is not being operated over an extended period of time. This, however, is a habit that should soon be done away with.

This also applies to cell phones, tablets, digital cameras, and other devices that use lithium batteries.

The damage that these batteries can do to your car is a very serious matter. Not only can the effects be irreparable, but they can also be life threatening. The potential of an individual and their family members getting into a vehicle just as the battery has reached its boiling point is not an issue that should be taken lightly.

All in all, the safety of the driver and his or her passengers is the number one priority concerning a vehicle. Avoiding the hassle of paying the costs of repairs or replacing the vehicle altogether, is something that can save you lots of money, time and stress.

So continue to Be Safe, Be Smart, and Be Sure to remove that GPS from the car if you're planning on leaving it for an extended period of time.