Don’t be a dummy, listen to the McIntyres
The McIntyres are lending themselves to the safety campaign.
MEET the McIntyres!
No relation to the comedian Michael, they are a family of crash test dummies and the animated characters are offering key tyre safety tips to coincide with October’s Tyre Safety Month.
They have teamed up with Tyresafe to broadcast their message via the organisation’s website.
It is their first appearance for Tyresafe and their main message is to ACT — Air pressure, Condition and Tread depth. They give fast, simple methods to check those vital tyre safety areas.
The chairman of Tyresafe, Stuart Jackson, said: “It may be delivered in a new and entertaining way, but our film has some really important messages in it which could help to save a number of lives. I would urge all drivers to spare just a couple of minutes to watch it and take on board the McIntyres’ advice. If our dummies understand the importance of tyre safety, then I’m sure us humans can do the same.”
Carelessly ignoring tyres and their condition is a massive problem in Britain. More than 1,000 people are injured every year as a result of crashes caused by illegal, defective or under-inflated tyres.
And it’s not just the danger of crashing which should concern drivers — if they are caught with an illegal tyre they face a fine of up to £2,500 and the imposition of three penalty points on their licence for each tyre.
The McIntyres show how tyres should be assessed at least monthly and always before a long journey. Drivers should ensure that air pressure matches that advised by the carmaker. And the pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold.
At the same time, throroughly check the condition of the rubber. Objects stuck in the tread should be removed and action taken if lumps, cuts or bulges are found.
One simple and quick way to check tread depth is to use a 20p piece. Place it edge on into the tread. If the outer band remains visible, there probably won’t be enough depth and they should be checked by a specialist.
Don’t take chances with safety. If you have doubts, visit one of the hundreds of garages and tyre retailers nationwide who are offering free check and inspections as part of Tyre Safety Month.
“Although the McIntyres have made their debut as part of tyre safety month, drivers need to remember that they should make checks all year round. However, as shown in the film, it only takes a few minutes and can make a dramatic difference to your safety on the road,” added Mr Jackson.
To meet the McIntyres and learn more about tyre safety, visit www.tyresafe.org.