September 1, 2020 - Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) is urging drivers to perform tire safety and maintenance practices as part of National Tire Safety Week (August 31 – September 6). Led by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), the National Tire Safety Week "Know Your Roll," initiative aims to educate consumers about proper tire care and maintenance as they take to the road for the upcoming Labor Day weekend and throughout the remainder of the year.

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed travel and daily commuting patterns. A recent Harris Poll found a large percentage of Americas plan to use their vehicles for long distance travel through the end of the year. In addition, many Americans see their personal vehicle as the safest mode of travel in the current environment.

"As the only part of a vehicle that directly connects to the road, tires play a critical role in ensuring a safe journey," said Chris Lasko, Chief Quality Officer, Bridgestone Americas. "Checking tire health is especially important for drivers who may have delayed routine vehicle maintenance in recent months due to COVID-19. We urge all Americans to inspect their tires today and keep their family and others safe on the road."

Bridgestone reminds drivers that tire safety is as simple as three words: inflate, rotate and evaluate. To make sure tires are ready to hit the road and allow passengers to get to their destination safely, Bridgestone recommends the following easy steps:

    Inflate – Tire pressure should be checked monthly, as well as before long trips or when carrying an extra load, using a tire pressure gauge. Proper inflation information can be found in the vehicle's owner's manual or on the tire information placard in the vehicle's door jamb near the driver's seat.
    Rotate – Routine tire rotation prevents uneven tire wear. Tires should be rotated and balanced according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Visit an authorized Bridgestone dealer or company-owned retail location for support with tire rotation needs.
    Evaluate – Drivers should check tread depth to make sure tires have enough traction to grip the road. All it takes to check the tread depth is a penny. Put the penny into a tread groove, with Abraham Lincoln going in headfirst. If Lincoln's head is fully visible in several grooves, it's time for new tires.

National Tire Safety Week is an annual initiative aimed at helping consumers learn the essential steps for proper tire care and maintenance. The initiative is led by the USTMA and supported by its member companies, including Bridgestone Americas.

For more information on tire safety visit BridgestoneAmericas.com/TireSafety.