Take note of these safety tips, says Continental

With increased traffic on the roads during this period, it is important to prioritise road safety. As a tyre manufacturer in South Africa, Continental is committed to ensuring that motorists stay safe during their journeys.

Whether you are travelling a short distance or embarking on a long road trip, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and that you follow the rules of the road. In particular, the importance of checking your tyres before embarking on any journey cannot be over-emphasised.

Tyres are an essential component of any vehicle and play a crucial role in ensuring road safety. Tyres that are worn, damaged or under-inflated can compromise your vehicle's handling, increase your stopping distance, and even cause accidents. To avoid any such risks, we recommend that all drivers take the following steps to check their tyres before setting off:

• Check your tyre pressures: Under-inflated tyres can lead to poor handling, higher fuel consumption, increased wear and excessive heat build-up that can result in tyre failure. Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressures of all the vehicle’s tyres, including the spare.
• Inspect the tread depth: The minimum legal tread depth in South Africa is 1.6 mm. Check your tyres for any uneven wear, bulges or cuts. If the tread depth is below the legal limit or there is visible damage, it's time to replace your tyres.
• Check for punctures: Before setting off on a long journey, check your tyres for any punctures or objects embedded in the tread.
• Ensure your spare tyre is in good condition: Don't forget to check your spare tyre.
• Trailer and caravan tyres: Check the condition of the tyres on your trailer or caravan, especially if they typically stand in the sun for long periods with little use. Inspect the tyres for any sign of damage or wear and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for pressures.

BestDrive by Continental fitment centres around the country offer comprehensive safety checks to ensure any potential problems with your car are identified and rectified. These checks cover the tyre pressures and tread depth, along with the condition of the shock absorbers, brake fluid, brake pads and discs, battery, exhaust system and wiper blades.

In addition to tyre checks, Continental urges motorists to practise safe driving habits this Easter break. This includes obeying the speed limit, ensuring that all occupants in the vehicle are wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions such as using your cell phone while driving and never drink and drive.

"We want all South Africans to have a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday, and that starts with being responsible on the roads," says Monica Ramsunder, head of Marketing at Continental Tyre South Africa.