RMA Unleashes Radio Announcements Urging Drivers to Be Tire Smart

NASCAR Driver Brad Keselowski Lends Voice to Spur Motorists to Check Tires

WASHINGTON, June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A tire industry group is ringing in the summer driving season with a 3,000 radio station distribution of public service announcements urging motorists to "Be Tire Smart" and check tire pressure to optimize safety, fuel efficiency and tire life.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) is distributing four radio public service announcements urging motorists to properly check tire pressure, inspect tread and understand proper tire repair.

Two of the announcements feature Brad Keselowski, driver of the #22 Discount Tire Dodge Challenger for Penske Racking in NASCAR's Nationwide series.  Scottsdale, Arizona-based Discount Tire Company is a long-time partner in RMA's Be Tire Smart – Play Your PART tire care education program.  This is the fourth year that Discount Tire has loaned the services of its sponsored driver to the RMA tire care education effort.

"Hot summer temperatures, under inflated tires and over-loaded vehicles can be a deadly combination," said Charles Cannon, RMA president and CEO.   "All of those conditions can cause tires to generate heat, which is the enemy of a tire.  Over time, excess internal heat can cause damage that may lead to a tire failure."

RMA has quick and simple tire care tips for summer:

• Check and Inflate!  Use a tire gauge to check tire pressure every month and before long trips.  Check tires when cold – before you drive -- for an accurate reading. Tires warm as they move and that can increase the tire pressure.
• What's Your Pressure? Use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire pressure that is found on a label on the driver's door or owner's manual.  Don't look at the tire sidewall. The maximum pressure is listed on the tire.
• Don't Pack on the Pounds!  Don't overload your car.  The same vehicle label for tire pressure has maximum load capability. Overloading your car and driving long distances can damage your tires.

Visit www.betiresmart.org to hear RMA's public service announcements.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association is the national trade association for tire manufacturers that produce tires in the U.S.  All RMA press releases are available at www.rma.org.

SOURCE Rubber Manufacturers Association