BURNING RUBBER 3 Rules for Tire Maintenance
When it comes to tires, many drivers are of the mentality, “If I don’t have to think about them, then they’re doing the job.” While this is true to an extent, it can lead to drivers never thinking about their tires until there is a problem. Blowouts and car accidents are often the result of poor tire maintenance. Tires give plenty of warning signs before these problems arise, which is why tire maintenance needs to be top of mind for all drivers. Here are three easy ways to keep your tires in fine form. Check the Tire Pressure Even if you have an automatic tire pressure system, it is important to check your tires manually in case the sensors stop working. Refer to your owner’s manual or look at the label on your car door to determine what your tire pressure should be. Then use a pressure gauge to check that your tires match. You can find step-by-step instructions to master this at dmv.org/how-to-guides/check-tire-pressure.php. Test Your Treads If your treads are too worn, driving on wet, slick roads or stopping quickly can be dangerous. Take a look at your treads regularly, like when you stop for gas. If you don’t have a tread depth gauge, use BACON-WRAPPED TATER TOT BOMBS Sure, your showoff pal can wrap a tater tot with a piece of bacon and call it “The Daniel,” but you can take it a step further. Prepare a couple batches of these savory snacks for your Super Bowl party or the next family get-together. Snag a few for yourself before they disappear!
the quarter test. Insert a quarter into the tread groove with the top of George Washington’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Washington’s head, you have less than 4/32” of tread and you need to start shopping for new tires. Pay Attention While Driving You should always listen for strange sounds or vibrations while driving your car. A thumping noise could indicate an out-of-balance tire and should be addressed by a mechanic right away. If your car drifts to the side while moving at a steady speed, this may also be an indication of tire trouble. There are usually warning signs before tire problems become severe, so it’s important to pay attention. Tire maintenance is a necessary, yet often overlooked responsibility for drivers. Before you get stranded on the side of the road, or suffer a car accident due to tire trouble, make these safety habits part of your routine.
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Directions 1. Heat oven to 400 F. Line a Ingredients • 2 cups frozen tater tots, defrosted • 1 ounce sharp cheddar, cut into 1/4-inch squares baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 2. Press a cheese square into each tot, then wrap with a
• 4 slices bacon, quartered • 1/4 cup brown sugar • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
ARROW BE MINE CANDLES CANDY CHOCOLATE CUPID FLOWERS
FRIENDSHIP HEART HONEY
RIBBONS ROMANCE ROSES SWEETHEART SWEETIE SWEETS VALENTINE
3. Place tots seam side down on baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, using metal tongs to turn halfway through. 4. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve immediately
LACE LOVE PINK RED
piece of bacon. Dredge each tot in brown sugar.
(Recipe inspired by ThisGrandmaIsFun.com.)
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