Our thoughts are turning to tyres as we move into October and celebrate Tyre Safety Month. But what actually is Tyre Safety Month and what can you do to ensure your tyres are safe and road ready?
What is Tyre Safety Month?
Tyre Safety Month has taken place every October since 2010. The annual event sees our friends at TryeSafe promoting the importance of looking after your tyres, and highlighting the dangers that uninflated, damaged or worn-out tyres can bring.
Who organises Tyre Safety Month?
Tyre Safety Month is the brainchild of TyreSafe, a UK charity dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of tyre maintenance and the dangers of defective and illegal tyres. The charity was formed in 2006 and so far its activities have helped to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured each year in a tyre-related accident by an impressive 46%.
TyreSafe’s work is supported by many areas of industry including most major tyre manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers, and vehicle manufacturers. The charity has become an authority on tyre safety issues and we’re proud to be supporting them at Halfords. We’re proud to announce that we also won their Retailer of the Year award for 2024.
How can I check that my tyres are safe?
There are lots of things you can do to ensure your tyres are safe and Halfords are always here to help.
To help you remember each of the key areas to keep an eye on, TyreSafe have launched their ‘ACT’ campaign. ACT represents each of the key aspects of your tyres you should check before any long journey:
- Air pressure
- Condition
- Tread depth
Here are each of the areas explained in more detail:
Check tyre pressure
First off, let’s talk about tyre pressure. Underinflated or overinflated tyres can affect handling, so having the right tyre pressure is crucial. A tyre pressure gauge is an easy way to get an accurate pressure reading and inflating your tyres is something anyone can do. Your vehicle’s handbook should list the correct pressure settings for your tyres.
You can also be notified when tyre pressure gets too low via a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). A TPMS is an electronic system built into vehicles and can help you avoid potential road accidents and tyre wear as a result of under-inflated tyres.
Check the overall condition
Second is the condition of your tyres. You’ll need to get up close and personal for this. You’ll want to be on the lookout for any cuts, splits or nicks, and also any glass, nails or screws that might have become embedded in the rubber and could cause a puncture in the future. Make sure you check your spare tyre too so that it’ll be ready and waiting if you need it.
Check tread depth
Finally, it’s the turn of tread depth. While you can do the old 20p trick (where you pop a 20p into your tread and then, if you can see the outer band of the coin face at any point, this shows your tyre tread is too narrow), we recommend using a more precise measuring method. A tyre depth gauge will help here, or you can pop into one of our garages for some expert advice.
How can Halfords help me to keep my tyres safe?
We’re here to offer advice on any of the points we’ve listed in the previous section. Our Free Tyre Check is the best starting point as that’ll identify any issues that need fixing, before one of our expert technicians talks you through the solutions that are available.
Another option is our 10-Point Car Health Check, which also checks the condition of key components such as your tyres, headlights, brake lights, battery, wiper blades, oil level and screenwash level. Best of all, as a Halfords Motoring Club member you can get this check free of charge (plus a range of benefits and discounts designed to keep you safe, moving and saving!) Still not a member? Check out the link below or scan the QR code in-store.
If it turns out that you need replacement tyres, we can support you there too through our Halfords autocentres or mobile expert service. All you need to do is enter your vehicle registration number online to find the perfect tyres for your car and then select a fitting option during the checkout process.
Same-day tyre fitting
Did you know that we now offer same-day tyre fitting across our garages nationwide? Simply book online before 1 p.m. and we can replace your tyres the same day to help you get you back on the road safely and swiftly. Please note that availability varies by location. For more information, please head on over to our dedicated same-day tyre fitting page where you can find answers to frequently asked questions, choose the right tyres for your vehicle and book your appointment.
Don’t get caught out this autumn and winter. Make sure your tyres are in good condition and stay safe on the roads. And remember to head to Halfords.com to keep on motoring for less.
