Recent CIWMB Study Finds Public is Unaware About Tire Maintenance
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--A recent study by the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) on proper tire maintenance found that while three-fourths of those surveyed were aware that they should check their tire pressure regularly, only half do so. Most respondents reported that there was “no need” to check their tires more often or said they did not have the right equipment, know-how or time.
The survey, conducted in September 2006, revealed that the majority of respondents were uninformed about tire safety. Results indicated that tire safety is more important to the general public than fuel economy, long-lasting tires, and environmental protection; yet only 60 percent of people surveyed were aware that proper tire maintenance increases safety.
“There is a real need to educate drivers about tire maintenance in order to increase vehicle safety and tire performance as well as extend the life of the tires and save money on gas,” explains Mitch Delmage, CIWMB Program Manager for the Tire Sustainability Campaign.
In an effort to educate the public, the CIWMB is conducting a two-year campaign on proper tire maintenance in an effort to help motorists be safe, save money and extend the life of tires as well as promote the purchase of tire-derived products and other recycled materials. The pilot program will be conducted in Fresno and San Francisco and will include forming partnerships with local tire retailers, distribution of public service announcements and media relations efforts.
In partnership with the Rubber Manufacturers Association, the CIWMB offers the following tire safety tips for motorists:
- Measure tire pressure monthly using a good quality tire gauge. A visual inspection is not sufficient to detect under or over-inflated tire problems.
- Have tires aligned regularly and check owner’s manual for specific recommendations. A pulling or vibration sensation means that alignment should be checked sooner.
- Rotate tires regularly, usually every 5,000-8,000 miles.
- Monitor tread wear and replace tires when tire tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch. Proper tire tread prevents skidding and hydroplaning.
- Tires should be balanced periodically or when drivers feel a vibration.
- Conduct a visual check for embedded stones, glass and other foreign objects that could work their way into the tire and cause a leak.
About CIWMB
The California Integrated Waste Management Board is the state’s leading authority on recycling and waste reduction. It promotes reducing waste whenever possible, managing all materials to their highest and best use and protecting public health and safety and the environment.
The California Integrated Waste Management Board is one of six boards, departments, and offices within the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA)(http://www.calepa.ca.gov/).
Learn more about tire safety and maintenance by visiting www.betiresmart.org.
