Welcome back to our Safety in Motion blog series, brought to you by Aperia Technologies. In our previous posts, we discussed optimal tire inflation and the importance of pre-trip tire inspections. Today, we turn our attention to the challenges posed by seasonal weather conditions and how effective tire management can help your fleet stay safe throughout the year.
The Impact of Seasonal Weather on Tire Performance
Autumn Considerations – Autumn is characterized by increasing rain and frozen precipitation along with fairly significant temperature fluctuations during the day. Maintaining optimal tire pressure and tread performance is a critical component of your fleet safety program.
Winter Weather Challenges – Winter brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, which can significantly impact tire performance. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, making tire management difficult. Snow and ice can also reduce grip, making it harder for trucks to stop and maneuver safely.
Spring and Summer Concerns – Spring and summer introduce different challenges. Spring showers can lead to slippery roads, while the heat of summer can cause tire pressure to increase, potentially leading to blowouts if not properly managed. Additionally, the fluctuating temperatures of spring can cause tire pressure to vary widely, requiring more frequent tire pressure checks.
Tire Management Strategies for Seasonal Safety
- Regular Tire Pressure Management
Maintaining consistent tire pressure is crucial especially as temperatures fluctuate. Use automatic tire inflation systems (ATIS) and tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to maintain and monitor pressure levels to adjust as necessary. Properly inflated tires maintain optimal contact with the road, ensuring better traction and reducing the risk of blowouts. Halo Connect i3™ from Aperia Technologies automatically corrects for ambient temperature to maintain optimal tire pressure, reducing the need for manual checks and adjustments. It also allows remote set point adjustment, empowering fleets to proactively adapt to weather fluctuation for optimal performance and safety. - Regular Tread Inspections
Regularly check tire tread depth to ensure adequate traction. For winter driving, deeper treads are essential for gripping snow and ice. In wet conditions, proper tread depth helps channel water away from the tire, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. The Halo Connect i3 intelligent, integrated inflation solution allows fleets to quickly and conveniently record and report tread depth measurements, making it easier to ensure optimal tire conditions for your drivers during any season. - Comprehensive Pre-Trip Inspections
Conduct comprehensive pre-trip inspections that include checking for seasonal wear and tear. Look for signs of damage that could be exacerbated by certain weather conditions, such as cracks in the sidewalls caused by extreme cold or heat. The Halo Drive app streamlines this process, enabling drivers to conduct thorough inspections and share real-time data with fleet managers. - Utilize Advanced Tire Management Tools
Implement advanced tire management tools like Halo Connect i3 from Aperia Technologies. This technology ensures that tires are always at their optimal pressure and condition, providing up-to-date data and alerts to both drivers and fleet managers. This proactive approach helps prevent issues before they arise, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Preparing Your Fleet for Seasonal Changes
Training and Education – Educate your drivers and technicians regarding specific challenges posed by varying weather conditions and the importance of tire maintenance. Training sessions on how to conduct thorough tire inspections and adjust driving habits according to weather conditions can go a long way in preventing accidents.
Emergency Preparedness – Ensure your assets are equipped with emergency supplies compatible with your assets and typical routes. Prepare a seasonal maintenance schedule that includes tire checks and replacements as needed.
Conclusion
Staying safe through seasonal weather changes requires a proactive approach to tire management. By maintaining consistent temperature-corrected target pressure with ATIS, conducting thorough tread inspections, and utilizing advanced tools like Halo Connect i3, you can ensure your fleet is well-prepared for any weather condition. At Aperia, we are committed to helping you navigate these challenges to keep your fleet safe and efficient year-round.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our Safety in Motion blog series, where we will continue to explore essential safety practices and innovations in tire management technology.
