National Tire Safety Week: June 5th-June 11th, 2011

Hot summer weather and long trips for vacation, to the beach or to visit family means that your tires are getting a run for their money, are your tires up to the challenge? 

Check your tires before your big trip or before venturing around town for the following:

• Proper inflation
• Wear  
• Damage

According to ConsumerReports.com, from 2005-2009 nearly 3,400 people die in a tire-related crash and another 116,000 people were injured. Many tire-related crashes could have been prevented through periodic tire checks, especially just before long trips in sweltering conditions. Tires are susceptible to heat stress, which can cause rupturing easily, especially when not properly inflated. 

Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe this summer:

1.       Make sure your tires are properly inflated. To find the proper inflation, look in the door jamb on the driver's side, in the glove compartment or on the fuel-filler door. If you struggle finding the inflation air pressure recommendations, contact your local dealership for help. Plus, proper inflation can benefit your wallet by allowing for better gas mileage. 

2.       Check your tire for damage. Look over your tires and replace them if you see cracks, cuts or bulges. Also, if you see objects lodged in your tire, like nails or screw, replace the tire. Replacing the tire will cost less in the long run than running the risk of a potential blow out in a construction zone on a major interstate. 

3.       Check the tread wear on your tire. If the tread is uneven or excessive, consider replacing your time. Place a quarter upside down in a tire grove, with good ole' George's head sticking out to the tire. The distance from George Washington's hairline is about 1/8 inch, so if you see all of his head, consider replacing the tire. Another trick is to use a penny, because a 1/16 inch cap exists between the edge of the penny and Abraham Lincoln's hairline. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, after putting it into a grove, you certainly need new tires. 

4.       Examine the sidewall of your tire. Many manufacturers state how long a tire should be on a car regardless of wear. If your tire is between 6 and 10 years, you should replace them. Your owner's manual can tell you in more detail the lifetime of your specific set of tires or vehicle. 

Keep yourself and your family safe this summer by checking up on your tires. If you need new tires, you know where to go! TiresByWeb.com. TiresByWeb offers trailer tires and snow tires as well, to help you throughout the year regardless of the weather conditions.