Heatwave Prompts Urgent Tyre Safety Warning for UK Motorists
As Britain braces for another spell of extreme heat next week, drivers have been urged to check their tyres before temperatures increase. The Met Office has issued a weather warning covering five regions from July 4, with temperatures expected to rise from Monday. Weather charts indicate that around 30 counties could see temperatures of 30°C or above, with the peak of the extreme warmth expected on Wednesday.
The increase in temperatures can heighten the risk of tyre blowouts, but spending just a few minutes to check them could prevent accidents and hefty repair costs. Davanti Tyres’ CEO, Peter Cross, explains: "As the temperatures rise, so does the heat of the air inside your tyres - the hot air expands, causing the pressure to increase which compromises the tyre structure."
Simple Checks to Prevent Accidents
Motorists have been urged to make simple checks before driving in these conditions. These include inspecting for cracks or tears on tyres and ensuring they maintain proper tread depth. Cross notes: "Generally, for every 10 degrees the temperature increases, tyre pressure can go up by around 0.1 bar, even if the car hasn’t been driven. Although this seems like a minor amount, any change in pressure can cause problems. Grip can also be impacted due to degradation of the rubber, which can increase braking distances."
Rest Stops and Cooling Tyres
When driving in high temperatures, it is important to stop every two hours to allow tyres to shed accumulated heat. Cross advises: "When travelling long distances, the standard guidance is to take a break every two hours of continuous driving. This allows the tyres (and the driver) to shed accumulated heat. If tyres feel hot to the touch, this is a clear sign they could be overheating. If you’re travelling a long distance and realise your tyres feel hot, the best form of action is to wait a while for the tyres to cool down before resuming your journey."
Pre-Travel Tyre Checks
- Check tyre pressure regularly – It’s best to do this when the vehicle is stationary and the tyres are cool, adjusting as needed to manufacturer specifications.
- Inspect tyres for wear and damage – Look for cracks, tears, or unusual wear patterns that could lead to tyre failure.
- Maintain proper tread depth – Worn tyres are more vulnerable to punctures and blowouts. The minimum legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm.
- Avoid overloading your vehicle – Extra weight increases tyre strain during hot weather.
