Big O Tires is helping motorists learn basic tire care during National Tire Safety Week, a tire industry initiative to teach drivers about proper tire safety and maintenance. The annual event is held this year from April 20 – 26.

Research sponsored by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) shows that only 15 percent of drivers properly check their tires – leaving an astounding 85 percent who are making mistakes. To counter these alarming facts, Big O Tires is teaming up with RMA for National Tire Safety Week.

Drivers can take advantage of free tire pressure inflation services at all Big O Tires locations. Tire technicians will even show motorists how to check their own tire pressure and tread depth and other important tire care tips.

“Research shows that motorists do not know enough about proper tire care,” said Emily White-Keating, Marketing Vice President at Big O Tires, LLC. “We want consumers to consider Big O Tires a resource for all tire care questions."

Other findings from RMA’s research include:

45 percent of drivers wrongly believe that the correct inflation pressure is printed on the tire sidewall.
27 percent of drivers wrongly believe that the best time to check their tires is when they are warm after being driven for at least a few miles.
Nearly two out of three drivers do not know how to tell if their tires are bald.
61 percent of motorists see checking tire pressure as a top fuel saving tip.

RMA recommends that tire pressure be checked at least once every month with a tire gauge. The recommended tire pressure for every vehicle is set by vehicle manufacturers and can be found on a label usually placed on the driver’s door or by checking the owner’s manual. Also, tires should be checked when cold, or haven’t been driven for at least three hours.

“We welcome all drivers to come and learn firsthand about proper tire care,” Ms. White-Keating said. “Using RMA's simple tire care tips, consumers can maximize their vehicle safety, achieve better fuel economy and get the most wear from their tires.”

About RMA and Big O Tires
RMA launched National Tire Safety Week in April 2002 as an initiative of its Be Tire Smart -- Play Your PART program. The educational program aims to teach drivers about the importance of taking simple care and maintenance steps to keep tires safe and performing at optimal levels. More than 18,000 tire dealers, automobile and safety organizations across the country are expected to participate in National Tire Safety Week 2008. For additional tire safety tips or to learn more about National Tire Safety Week, visit www.betiresmart.org or www.bigotires.com .

Big O Tires, LLC serves over 535 franchised stores, primarily in the Western and Midwestern states, and also distributes tires and other automotive service products to Associated Dealers in Western Canada. Since 1996, Big O Tires has operated as a subsidiary of Florida-based TBC Corporation.

To obtain further information on becoming a Big O Tires Franchisee, please contact our Franchise Qualifications Specialist at 1-800-622-2446 or send an email to franchise@bigotires.com.