Warning issued over 'lethal' air fryer danger
University students heading back to campus could face a serious safety risk if their cars aren’t packed correctly – with heavy items like air fryers becoming deadly projectiles. That's the warning from one expert, who said heavy items could become "lethal" in a crash.
Graham Conway, from Select Car Leasing, said heavy items like air fryers could turn into a "dangerous weapon" in the event of a collision. He said research showed that in a crash at a modest speed, the trendy kitchen appliance could hit the driver or front-seat passenger with the force of an adult bull.
Mr Conway said: “With air fryers being a popular and affordable choice for students, many will be packing one in their cars for the journey to university - either for their first taste of life away from home or to continue their studies in new accommodation. But what many people don’t realise is that these fairly heavy appliances, if not properly secured, can become lethal. In a collision at just 37mph, an 8.9kg air fryer could slam into you with the equivalent weight of 495kg – the size of a fully grown bull."
This dramatic increase in weight happens when loose items in a car are involved in a sudden stop or crash. According to research by luggage brand Fixeta, any item can multiply its weight by up to 56 times in such situations, making ordinary household objects into serious hazards. Even lighter items packed on the parcel shelf or back seat can become dangerous projectiles if not strapped down.
Mr Conway added: “It’s tempting to fill every bit of space in the car when heading back to campus. But if you have to brake sharply, anything unsecured could hit you at speeds of up to 65mph."
The motoring expert also warned students and their parents about the legal consequences of overloading cars or obstructing the view of the driver.
He said: "Overpacking your vehicle beyond its weight limit is illegal and could result in a £1,000 fine and three penalty points. If it leads to a serious accident, jail time is a real possibility.”
He advised anyone heading off for university to pack responsibly, using strapping or bungee cords to secure heavier items and avoid potential danger. "Make sure nothing is loose that could turn your drive to campus into a disaster," he added.