Michelin Readies Drivers for Holiday Travel; Simple Guidelines Can Help You Travel Safely During the Thanksgiving Holiday

GREENVILLE, S.C., Nov. 19 -- Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, but it doesn't have to be stressful. If you're going to be on the highways, Michelin offers the following safety tips to help you get ready for your trip.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you take any trip, you need to make sure that your vehicle is prepared for the journey - especially when the weather is cold.

* Make sure your vehicle's turn signals, wipers, parking brake, brake lights, and headlights are in working order. * Check the air pressure in your tires, including the spare. The proper inflation pressure can be found in the owner's manual or on the placard usually on the doorjamb. The pressure indicated on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure allowed, not what is recommended for your vehicle. * Check the oil, radiator and windshield washer fluid, and change or refill as needed. * Remember to pack safety equipment such as a flashlight, first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, food and water. A cell phone is also helpful for emergencies.

Be Ready to Drive

Stressed or tired drivers make for dangerous situations on the road, so it's important to be fully rested and prepared for the trip.

* Minimize stress by mapping out your route in advance of your trip. * Take breaks along your route to stretch and break the boredom of driving. A 15-minute break every two to three hours of driving is a good idea. * Don't drive while you are drowsy, because a tired driver has slower reaction times.

Prepare for the Weather

If you do encounter slick, wintry roads, knowing the proper driving techniques can help you avoid an accident and give you peace of mind.

Keep your speed down to make your vehicle easier to slow down and steer. Don't try to travel at normal fair weather speeds. If you drive in a climate that gets a lot of wintry weather, consider buying a set of winter tires.

To prevent skids, avoid sudden braking, and only brake while your vehicle is going straight, not in a curve. Also remember not to pump your anti-lock brakes. If your rear wheels are sliding, turn the steering wheel into the skid, in the same direction that the rear end is sliding. If your front wheels are sliding, hold the wheel straight and let the skid correct itself. If you become stuck, avoid spinning your tires, because it causes excessive heat build-up that could result in personal injury or damage to your vehicle. Use extra caution on bridges and overpasses, because freestanding structures are more prone to ice accumulation due to their exposure to cold air circulation. With 30 J.D. Power and Associates Award for Customer Satisfaction, Michelin manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, maps and atlases covering Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelin.com) employs 26,500 and operates 23 facilities in 19 locations.