TIRE BLOWOUTS: How the heat is affecting tires and creating debris

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - Hot temperatures will be around for several more days and that can take a toll on your vehicle.

If your preparing to hit the roads you’re going to want to check your tire pressure and consider the age of your tires. It’s one of the many things that could keep you out of trouble in the heat.

”Tires number one enemy is heat,” said Tim Fess with Rick’s Automotive. “As a result that rubber gets softer and more prone to failure and damage from the impact.”

Whether you’ve recently have traveled down I-44, 65 or the James River Freeway you’ve probably seen tire debris from blowouts.

”The best thing you can do is avoid it be safe and try to maintain your lane,” said Fess.

Tim Fess with Rick’s Automotive says you always need to have your eyes peeled for road debris and make sure your own tires are ready.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says if you experience a tire blowout you’re responsible for your own debris.

”If your unable to go back and get it it’s not worth risking your own life,” said Sergeant Mike McClure. “You need to call MoDot to make sure they can go out there and get it cleaned up.”

McClure says if you have to change your own tire don’t do it close to the road and try to get to a nearby exit ramp if you can.

”If you are in a position where you can’t get off the road call Star 55 and we can come out and help provide an advanced warning to oncoming drivers about the situation,” said McClure.

MSHP says the volume of traffic on the road that can also lead to these blowouts and to keep as much following distance as possible.

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