April 26, 2004 THE RUBBER ASSOCIATION OF CANADA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA LAUNCH "BE TIRE SMART" WEEK TORONTO - The Rubber Association of Canada and the Government of Canada are pleased to announce that the first-ever national "Be Tire Smart" Week in Canada will be held April 25-May 1, 2004. The week is part of the "Be Tire Smart - Play your PART" campaign, which is dedicated to educating drivers about the safety and environmental benefits of proper tire maintenance. A recent study by the Rubber Association of Canada and the Government of Canada showed that 70 percent of vehicles on the road have at least one tire that is improperly inflated by more than 10 percent. It is clear that more drivers need to understand that proper tire maintenance leads to improved vehicle safety, increased fuel efficiency, less energy use and fewer greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. "Be Tire Smart Week is an opportunity for us to remind Canadians of the importance of maintaining their tires, especially measuring their tire pressure monthly," said Glenn Maidment, President of The Rubber Association of Canada. "It's an easy and quick thing to do, and it's so important to the overall safe and efficient operation of their vehicles." "The Government of Canada is pleased to support the Be Tire Smart Week and campaign," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). "Last month, the Government asked Canadians to take on the One-Tonne Challenge. This campaign is an excellent place to start and a great example of a simple way Canadians can reduce their energy use." As part of Be Tire Smart Week, the tire-company members of the Rubber Association of Canada, tire dealers across the country and other campaign partners will run radio advertisements encouraging drivers to measure their tire pressure, distribute information to customers and host tire clinics for employees and customers. NRCan plays a leading role in helping improve the quality of life of Canadians through sustainable resource development. By promoting the responsible use of our natural resources, NRCan helps ensure that actions taken by the Government of Canada to address climate change contribute to the long-term goals of building a sustainable economy for the 21st century, a healthier environment and strong communities, while affirming Canada's place in the world. For more information, media may contact: Alexandra Muir Director of Communications Office of the Minister Natural Resources Canada Ottawa (613) 947-8246 Glenn Maidment President Rubber Association of Canada Mississauga (905) 814-1714 Ghyslain Charron Media Relations Natural Resources Canada Ottawa (613) 992-4447 Anne Scott GPC International (416) 598-0055 ext. 267 NRCan's news releases and backgrounders are available at www.nrcan.gc.ca.