Cerro Gordo County, IA – Drivers traveling across North Iowa during the holiday season are being urged to check their tire pressure as colder temperatures settle in, a step officials say can help prevent breakdowns and crashes.
According to the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office, tire inflation pressure drops as outside temperatures fall, which can leave vehicles underinflated without drivers realizing it. Even a small drop in temperature can reduce tire pressure enough to affect handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to inflate their tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, not the number printed on the tire itself. That recommended pressure can be found in the vehicle owner’s manual or on a label located on the driver’s side door frame.
Officials emphasized that the pressure listed on the tire indicates the maximum pressure the tire can safely hold, not the ideal pressure for everyday driving. Overinflating tires can be just as dangerous as underinflating them, increasing the risk of uneven wear and reduced traction—especially on icy or snow-covered roads.
With holiday travel increasing traffic across Cerro Gordo County and surrounding areas, law enforcement encourages drivers to make tire checks part of their winter routine. Properly inflated tires can improve vehicle stability, reduce stopping distance, and lower the chances of a roadside emergency during cold-weather travel.
Authorities also suggest checking tire pressure when tires are cold, as driving even a short distance can temporarily raise pressure readings and give inaccurate results.
Drivers planning longer trips this week are encouraged to inspect all four tires, including the spare, before heading out.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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