Kildare drivers - definitely don't try this car hack to avoid possible fire

Motorists have been warned about an unusual practice which resulted in a car becoming engulfed in flames.

A driver had placed blankets over a car battery so that it would start quickly the following morning. 

West Midlands Fire Service said: "Please don’t try this at home - or anywhere!

"The driver used blankets and towels to keep the battery warm after a journey, so the car would start easily.

Car fires present many hidden dangers for firefighters. 

Water can cause small explosions due to chemical reactions.

Intense heat is also generated due to the burning of magnesium in the engine blocks.

In addition, magnesium reacts violently with water and can explode.

Similarly, gas contained in hinges in bonnets and boots can also explode possibly causing them to shoot off like missiles.