When Mom's take Care of their Cars, They take Care of their Families

For moms, their automobile is quite possibly the most important component in their daily lives from taking the kids to school, doctor's appointments, soccer practice and then off to run the millions of errands on their "to-do" list.

Mothering your tires
"When driving, your tires are the only thing between you and the road" . As moms carry around precious cargo, it is important to make sure these tire tips are followed to keep everyone safe:

* Next time you park your car, take a moment to inspect your tires for cuts, slashes and irregularities. It could save you from a potential blowout or changing a tire on the roadside.

* Eighty-five percent of drivers fail to properly check tire pressure, according to a recent survey by the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Keeping the right tire pressure is easy to do and a key component in tire longevity and safety.

* Be sure to rotate your tires at every other oil change (approximately every 6,000 miles) to help balance tread wear.

Be car seat savvy
Busy moms often become the taxi driver for their families. Making sure the kids are safely and securely fastened-in is crucial. Be smart about the type of car seat your child is sitting in by following these guidelines:

* If you are in the market for a car seat, buy it new. Avoid buying a seat without knowing its history.

* Take the time to get your car seat inspected by a Child Passenger Safety Technician.

* Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's rating for your car seat.

Emergencies are no joke
With more vehicles on the road than ever before, it is essential to be prepared for emergencies. Having the knowledge to act quickly and correctly can help keep your children safe. Here are some important rules to follow:

* Have an updated emergency kit in your vehicle at all times.

* During a tire blowout, don't panic. Slightly increase your speed and keep steering stable to maintain the vehicle's forward motion. Then, slow down and move to the emergency lane when possible.

* If you have power locks, keep an escape hammer in your car in case you are involved in a water-related accident and your vehicle becomes submerged.