It’s Important to Know The Dangers of Sleeping in a Car with The AC On!

When traveling long distances, comfort and safety are two major concerns. However, amongst the hectic schedule and various challenges of traveling, it is often difficult to find a comfortable place to rest. This is where sleeping in the car with the AC on can be an attractive alternative option.

Sleeping in the car is no stranger to many long-distance drivers. However, providing optimal comfort in these situations can be a challenge. One important factor to consider is the use of air conditioning. While it allows for cooler and more comfortable air, uncontrolled use of the AC can be a risk, especially when the car is parked for long periods of time.

In this article TransTRACK, we will explore best practices and safety tips for sleeping in a car with the AC on. From choosing a safe parking location to setting up the air conditioning system, we will discuss everything that needs to be considered to make sleeping in the car a pleasant and risk-free experience.

Reasons why sleeping in a car with the AC on is dangerous

Sleeping in a car with the AC on can carry serious risks for several reasons:

Oxygen Deficiency

Poorly drained air in a car can lead to the accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) and a decrease in oxygen (O2) levels. This is because while air conditioning can cool the air, it does not replace fresh air as effectively as proper ventilation. Low oxygen levels can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and even confusion. If not treated properly, oxygen deprivation can be fatal.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless and colorless toxic gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as gasoline in a car engine. If the car has a leak in the exhaust system or engine, or if the engine is running in an enclosed space that is not properly drained, CO can enter the car cabin. Exposure to even small amounts can lead to CO poisoning, whose symptoms are initially similar to the common cold, such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, but can develop into a life-threatening condition if not treated quickly.

Blood Clots

The low temperature in the car can affect your body temperature, which in turn can slow down blood circulation. Uncomfortable sleeping positions or staying in the same position for too long can also lead to decreased blood flow to certain parts of the body, increasing the risk of blood clots. Untreated blood clots can lead to serious health problems such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or even pulmonary embolism.

So, when sleeping in a car with the AC on, make sure you have adequate ventilation for proper air circulation. Always watch for signs of oxygen deprivation or CO poisoning, and if you feel uncomfortable or experience any suspicious symptoms, get out of the car immediately and find a safer place. It is always better to prevent risks than to face them.

Tips for Safe Sleeping in a Car

Here are some tips for sleeping safely in a car:

Park in a Safe Place

When choosing a parking lot, prioritize places that are well-lit, open, and safe from crime. Avoid places that are too quiet or dark, and make sure you park in a legal area that does not interfere with traffic.

Recline the Seat

For more comfort, recline the rear seat forward to create a flatter sleeping space. Also make sure that the sleeping surface you create is comfortable enough, perhaps by adding pillows or a thin mattress.

Turning off the AC and Opening the Windshield

Although the AC provides a comfortable temperature, pay attention not to leave the car engine running for too long when you sleep. Turn off the AC and ensure good air circulation by opening the windshield slightly. This will help avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and maintain the air quality inside the car.

Ensure Security

Before going to bed, make sure the car doors are locked properly to prevent access from outside. Use window coverings or sunshades to maintain your privacy and reduce light, but make sure there is still enough air ventilation.

Safeguarding Valuables

Keep your valuables in a safe and hidden place inside the car. Do not leave valuables visible from outside the car to avoid theft.

Choose the Right Time and Location

When choosing a time and location to take a break, choose a place that is relatively quiet and safe from distractions. Also make sure that you are not in a place that is too close to busy traffic or around noisy areas.

Consider the Weather Conditions

Consider the weather conditions before you sleep in the car. Make sure you are prepared for unexpected changes in temperature or weather by bringing appropriate gear such as blankets or warm clothes.

By keeping these things in mind, you can sleep more safely and comfortably in the car while traveling or taking temporary breaks. Stay aware of your surroundings and make sure you are comfortable with your sleeping options before you go to sleep.

Sleeping in the car during a long-distance trip can be a convenient option, but it also requires careful planning to ensure your comfort and safety. In an effort to provide a safer and more comfortable sleeping experience for car users, TransTRACK introduces its innovative Fleet Management System.

Using TransTRACK’s  Fleet Management System, drivers can monitor the car’s condition in real-time, including the temperature inside the cabin and engine status. This allows the driver to efficiently manage the use of the air conditioner, avoiding the risk of oxygen deprivation or carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur if the air conditioner is left on for too long in parking conditions.

In addition, the Fleet Management System also provides additional safety features, such as location monitoring and accident or emergency notifications. Thus, users can sleep more peacefully, knowing that they have a system that can provide alerts and assistance in emergency situations.

By using TransTRACK’s Fleet Management System, drivers can ensure that they sleep comfortably and safely in their cars, while optimizing air conditioning usage and having access to important safety features. So, don’t hesitate to try out TransTRACK’s Fleet Management System for a better sleeping experience in your car.