Children sometimes have a more hectic schedule than their parents. Children in cars can be taxied to and from school, music lessons, clubs, sports and more. Research says that children can spend up to three hours a week in the car with their parents and up to 96 hours per year with grandparents.

That is why it is so important to make sure that you car and your tyres are up to the job. Here is some information from the Tyre Safe website:

Worryingly, more than one in four carers may be driving with illegal or poorly maintained tyres*.

The Home Safely on Safe Tyres campaign highlights the importance of tyres in keeping drivers and their young passengers safe while on the roads. It also emphasises to all drivers entrusted with child care that it is their responsibility to check the condition of their car’s tyres.

With the message ‘Child care – Tyre care’ the posters, leaflets and animation advise how drivers can carry out general tyre maintenance themselves. Alternatively, drivers can ask a tyre professional to ensure their tyres’ air pressure, condition and tread depth are safe and legal.

Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said: “With child care responsibilities spread among different people, many of whom will be driving their young charges to and fro, it’s important that everyone in that care network regularly makes sure their car’s tyres are safe.

“Car tyres are the only part of the car in contact with the road, which makes their maintenance essential for road safety. Whether you are a parent, grandparent or guardian, checking your tyres once a month is crucial for keeping yourself and your passengers safe on the road. Let’s make sure we get them home safely on safe tyres.”

If you are worried about your tyres then please head down to Ballymena Tyres on Warden Street who will be able to help you and give you advice.