Motor Expo 2026

News of drivers dying from starting their car and sleeping with the air conditioning on is frequently seen. Many people overlook the danger, thinking, “It’s alright, just a quick nap, I’ll wake up soon.” But little do they know! Sleeping while leaving the car engine running can cause the body to receive carbon monoxide gas, which is gradually released from the exhaust pipe. Sometimes, if your body is very tired, you might accidentally fall into a deep sleep for many hours. Because if exposed for many hours, there is a risk of suffocation leading to death.

From the information center of the National Institute of Emergency Medicine (NIEMS), it is stated that the danger of starting a car and sleeping with the air conditioning on is a nearby threat that many people overlook. Because turning on the air conditioning with the engine running and all four car windows tightly closed will cause the car's air conditioning system, which draws outside air into circulation inside the car, to pull in smoke from the car's exhaust pipe. Car exhaust contains both carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gases, which are very harmful to the body.

Because the danger of inhaling carbon monoxide gas is that it can cause irritation, headaches, lethargy, drowsiness, twitching, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, and irregular heartbeat due to abnormally low hemoglobin, and it affects the central nervous system to the point of death. When the car's air conditioning system draws in these gases while we are asleep, we will inhale them as well, and this will affect our bodies by gradually causing us to lose consciousness, which can ultimately lead to death.

How to prevent it if driving long distances continuously for many hours 

Drivers may experience fatigue or exhaustion to the point of needing rest. If you really can't continue and need to take a nap, you should stop at a gas station and find the safest parking spot (emphasis) it must be the safest. And you should lock all doors (to prevent criminals) , find a well-ventilated area, and lower all four windows slightly.

But the best and safest way is 

Before driving short or long distances, you should get enough rest. It is good and safe for both yourself and your fellow travelers.

Article referenced from the National Institute of Emergency Medicine (NIEMS) 

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