Aug 30 , 2015
MANAMA, Bahrain, 30 August 2015 – Bridgestone Middle East and Africa FZE today released results from a survey on motorists in Bahrain, gauging their awareness of tyre safety. The findings reveal that almost one-third of all respondents do not check the condition of their vehicle’s tyres regularly.
The survey conducted at the Tyre Safety and Eco Station campaign in Bahrain City Centre in June shows that many drivers neglect basic tyre safety measures and travel in vehicles that are potentially unsafe. Of those drivers who did not check their tyres on a regular basis, 40% mentioned a lack of time, while around 20% of respondents did not know how to do so or did not find it important.
“While awareness regarding tyre safety is not alarmingly low, there still is a sizable portion of the population that needs to prioritise it. Tyre air pressure should be checked at least once a month. Tyres must also be inspected often for cracks, bulges and any foreign objects lodged in them. Regular maintenance can prevent accidents and save money by improving fuel-efficiency,” said Evelina Voynova, G.M., Administration, Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE, in charge of CSR & Tyre Safety related initiatives.
Additional information from the survey shows that almost 30% of respondents were not aware of the correct air pressure for their vehicle. This information can be found on the driver's door frame or in the owner’s handbook. A slightly greater number – 40% did not know about the ‘tread wear indicator’ on tyres. These are raised bars that are moulded into the grooves of tyres. Tyres should be replaced when the tread wear indicators are at the same level as that of the tyre surface.
“Bridgestone is committed to educating motorists and to encourage the practice of tyre safety, we distributed compact air pressure gauges to survey participants during the Tyre Safety and Eco Station Campaign. All visitors at the station had the opportunity to learn how to inspect tyres, with the assistance of Bridgestone staff. The campaign which was conducted in partnership with AJM Kooheji Group, Bridgestone’s sole distributor in Bahrain, will be followed by similar campaigns in Lebanon, Oman, Egypt, Mauritius and Morocco”, added Evelina.
About Bridgestone Corporation: Bridgestone Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan is the world's largest tyre and rubber company. In addition to tyres for use in a wide variety of applications, it manufactures a broad range of diversified products, which include industrial rubber and chemical products and sporting goods. Its products are sold in over 150 nations and territories around the world. www.bridgestone.com
About Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE: Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE (BSMEA) is the headquarters for Bridgestone in the Middle East and Africa region. It was set up with the objectives of speeding up decision-making and action and of optimising regional strategy by identifying market trends close to the region’s customer and market. Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE believes in earning the trust and confidence of customers by conducting seminars to promote and encourage environmental awareness as well as road safety. www.bridgestone-mea.com
