'I'm a driving expert - never touch this dangerous car component on a hot day'

A motoring expert has urged drivers in various parts of the country to avoid touching one component that could result in painful burns during hot weather. With many areas of the UK currently experiencing high temperatures and clear skies, drivers are getting behind the wheel of particularly hot cars.

As a result, Graham Conway from Select Car Leasing recommended that drivers and passengers alike be considerate about what they touch, particularly warning them to avoid touching the metal part of seat belts. He warned: "Seat belts are a major cause for concern during any type of heatwave. While they are lifesavers on the roads, the metal parts have been known to cause injury on warm days when they heat up in the direct glare of the sun. They can cause serious burns to bare flesh, particularly for youngsters who might not be aware of the issue, and also pose a danger to any animals being transported."

Whilst seat belts are vital in keeping all of the vehicle's occupants safe in an emergency, the metal blade that secures them can often get particularly hot.

Since it is often visible from the vehicle's windows, some studies have found that the metal part of a seat belt can reach up to 90 degrees celsius on a sunny day.

As a result, it is vital that all occupants make sure to grab the seat belt by the plastic cover and educate their children to avoid painful burns from adding stress to any journey.

Graham also suggested that drivers make sure that the metal components of their vehicle's seat belts are put in a place away from the sun, sliding them down the fabric belt to the floor.

He advised: "I would therefore advise people to cover them up as best they can to ensure they stay as cool as possible. Use light coloured material and even plug them back in to keep them out of direct sunlight.

"You should also let your car cool down as much as possible before using it by opening doors and running the air conditioning for a while before you get in."