How to stay cool: Experts reveal tips for beating car heatwaves

Both paramedics and automotive specialists agree that the best method is to open the window on the driver's side and then vigorously open and close the passenger door. Additionally, opening the boot will expedite the cooling process. This way, you will effectively push the hot air out of the interior and replace it with cooler air from the outside.

If you have to leave your car in the sun, turn the steering wheel 180 degrees. This prevents the part you touch most often during driving from heating up. Thanks to this simple trick, you won't need to resort to using oven mitts.

Pay attention to your car keys. If they have a remote central locking function, there's a chance they also have a remote window opening function. Usually, you just need to hold the unlock button for a few seconds. You can do this before entering the car, for example, when leaving the office.

Wondering how quickly a car heats up? In the sun, at a temperature of 35°C, within an hour the interior of the vehicle can reach 47°C, the steering wheel 53°C, and the dashboard even up to 69°C.

A car parked in the shade heats up more slowly. At the same outside temperature, after an hour the interior of the car will be 38°C, the dashboard 48°C, and the steering wheel 42°C.

Paramedics also remind people to use air conditioning carefully after starting the car. First, open a few windows to avoid the thermal shock associated with a sudden change in temperature and to allow the hot air to leave the vehicle faster.

Experts have long been trying to popularise the 5-minute rule: turn on the air conditioning only 5 minutes after you start driving and turn it off 5 minutes before you end your drive. This greatly extends the air conditioning system's life and prevents the build-up of harmful fungi and mould.