TyreSafe is calling on road users to ACT on tyre safety this winter, a small but essential step that could mean the difference between arriving safely and facing hazardous incidents on the road.
It is estimated that 6.1 million tyres in the UK may already be illegal when a vehicle owner seeks advice on the need for replacement.
The campaign points out that tread depth is vital for vehicle braking, handling, and grip, especially during winter, when icy and wet roads significantly increase stopping distances.
TyreSafe urges all road users to take a few minutes to check their tyres, ensuring their own and others’ safety.
In addition, the AA attends over 620,000 tyre-related breakdowns each year, which, during harsher conditions can present additional hazards and disruptions.
The ‘Home Safely for Winter’ campaign is built around the ACT message, a simple three-step guide to help road users make informed decisions about their tyre safety:
- Air Pressure – proper inflation is essential, as under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency and impair handling, especially on slippery roads.
- Condition – look for cuts, bulges, or other signs of damage that could cause a blowout or loss of control.
- Tread – tread depth should meet the legal minimum of 1.6mm, although deeper tread provides better grip, crucial on winter roads.
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe chair, said: “This campaign is about encouraging road users to take responsibility for their safety.
“When conditions are at their worst, tyre safety becomes even more important. We are urging road users to take a few minutes to ACT – checking air pressure, condition, and tread depth – which can reduce the risk of incidents and ensure that everyone can make it home to their loved ones safely.”
To support the campaign, TyreSafe provides winter driving advice, from slowing down on icy roads to maintaining greater stopping distances and ensuring visibility by clearing windscreens and checking headlight functionality.
Supporters of ‘Home Safely for Winter’ can access a toolkit with resources including social media assets, printable materials, and ongoing tyre care advice, available through TyreSafe’s website.
The campaign invites road users and organisations to spread the word by sharing the #HomeSafelyForWinter message, reminding the community that tyre safety only takes a few minutes but can save lives.
The campaign will run through November and December, as road users prepare for and begin to experience the colder months ahead. TyreSafe encourages everyone to join the conversation, helping spread awareness of tyre safety and its life-saving potential.
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