Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-07-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re the parent of children with allergies or asthma that tends to flare up in the fall, now is the time you typically should start preparing for them to go back to school. But one thing might make this year’s fall allergy season a bit more severe than others: The recent wild weather much of the country has been experiencing over the spring and summer.

Deluges of rain, unprecedented heatwaves and heavy storms have been the norm for most of us, and all of that can contribute to the severity of allergy symptoms, including hay fever and pollen allergies.

“Molds grow quickly in heat and high humidity, and a rainy spring can also promote rapid plant growth and lead to an increase in molds, causing symptoms to last well into the fall,” said allergist Gailen Marshall, MD, PhD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Because allergies and asthma can impact a child’s school day, and even their overall academic performance, it’s important for parents to prepare for the triggers that can cause allergic reactions.”

The ACAAI offers these six tips for parents to get a handle on allergies and asthma so their children can start off the school year healthy and ready to learn.

Know your child’s triggers. What is causing those itchy eyes and runny noses? Knowing what you’re up against is the first step in treating it. Be especially mindful of allergens that can be found in a classroom, including dust, molds and pet dander on other kids’ clothes and backpacks. If you don’t know the triggers, it’s time to see an allergist.

Make an allergist appointment before school starts. Board-certified allergists are uniquely trained and qualified to treat allergies and asthma. Your allergist will work with you to create a plan to minimize the impact of your child’s allergies. Make sure your child’s prescriptions are up to date and adjusted (if necessary), if they’ve had a growth spurt or their weight has changed over the summer. And have their prescription paperwork in order if your child needs to carry medication with them to school.

Educate your child on food allergies. School cafeterias are a high-risk zone for children with food allergies and a big worry for parents. Make sure your child knows what they’re allergic to, the foods to avoid, the symptoms to watch out for, and what they need to do if they feel those symptoms coming on. If your child needs an epinephrine auto injector, make sure they have two in their backpack at all times. Your allergist is your ally in this important, lifesaving step.

Create an asthma plan. Childhood asthma affects some six million children in the U.S. If your child is one of them, make sure he or she carries their inhaler and is knowledgeable about what might trigger an attack. School personnel should also have a copy of your child’s asthma plan.

Loop in school personnel. Talk with your child’s teachers, school nurses and even cafeteria workers. They can be important allies, especially if your child has food allergies and asthma. A conversation before the school year is in full swing can make them aware that your child has an allergy or asthma, and whether they may need to take medication or use an epinephrine auto injector or an inhaler.

Consider immunotherapy. Managing symptoms is one thing, but treating the underlying allergy itself may be a more permanent solution. Immunotherapy is extremely effective for treating some allergies and can help control asthma. Many allergies can be treated with allergy immunotherapy in the form of shots or tablets, and your child could reap the benefits by seeing their symptoms decrease.

If your child’s allergy and asthma symptoms are getting in the way of them living their best life, especially at school, use the ACAAI allergist locator to find an allergist in your area.

2024-07-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – Hello, my name is Amanda and I’m a 36-year-old mom who loves playing the piano and crafting.

My son Isaac is my world, and while I am his biggest supporter while he plays Peewee football, he’s my biggest cheerleader as well. I live with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and some days are harder than others, but Isaac is by my side, inspiring me every step of the way.

Rewinding to 2017, I was diagnosed with leukemia and underwent an allogeneic bone marrow transplant the following year. Although the transplant successfully treated my cancer, just a few months later, I was hit with a series of alarming symptoms.

My abdomen swelled like I was nine months pregnant. My skin became incredibly dry and hypersensitive to sunlight. Even the mildest spices, like a dash of ketchup, caused my tongue to swell, making even the simplest meal a challenge.

Tests revealed that I had developed GVHD, a common complication following an allogeneic bone marrow transplant, which occurs when donor cells (the graft) attack the recipient’s organs and tissues (the host). While some experience mild symptoms that can go away, mine were debilitating.

I knew about GVHD before my transplant, but nothing prepared me for the reality.

As someone who has always been an open and outgoing person and had blogged regularly about my cancer journey, GVHD left me feeling isolated. I didn’t know how to talk about what I was going through. And this was very unfamiliar to me.

My experience with GVHD has been an absolute rollercoaster, from feelings of fear to feelings of helplessness — never knowing what symptoms I may experience day to day. On a bad day, I could be covered in sores from too much sunlight after walking the dog or laid up in bed, sick with excruciating body pain, intense nausea, and diarrhea. However, the most painful part of this experience has been that my son is a rambunctious little boy — a little boy who wants to play and run and go to the park and play baseball — and I can’t always keep up with him on the tougher days.

But I don’t let that stop me.

I’m determined to improve my condition and I’ve vowed to do everything I can to advocate for myself so I can get better for my son.

After feeling alone for some time, I started doing research — reading everything I could get my hands on, even reaching out to doctors and professors directly to discover new strategies to help manage my GVHD through exercise and nutrition.

But most importantly, I joined online support groups and connected with other people in the GVHD community. My family has always been an amazing source of support; however, talking with people who could directly understand my experience with the condition was a game-changer and a turning point for me mentally. The opportunity to get things off my chest — instead of just holding everything in — has been a great source of therapy.

Today, when I’m not helping others struggling with GVHD, I balance my time between freelance writing for newspapers and magazines, working on my Board Certification in Patient Advocacy, and being a mother to my son. And when I experience flare-ups from my GVHD, I’ve learned how to manage and speak openly about them.

For anyone facing GVHD, remember that being open to the community and building a reliable support system are key to taking control of your health. Everybody is different, and you know your body the best.

For anyone who is looking to make a connection, please visit the GVHD Alliance for resources and support for your GVHD journey.

The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.

2024-07-30T08:15:00

(BPT) – Every year, there are more than 5 million crashes and 35,000 fatalities on U.S. roadways, according to the National Highway Safety Administration. Driving to and from jobsites is a routine necessity for contractors. However, this necessity can pose significant risks. Recent data from Acuity Insurance shows there is reason for contractors to take a closer look at their auto safety programs and insurance coverage.

Brittney Passini, director of commercial product development at Acuity Insurance, said, “Collision claims in 2023 were the second-most frequent claim for our contractor customers and cost slightly under $10,000 on average.”

Passini further highlighted, “Car accidents aren’t just common and inconvenient. They also can be financially devastating. In 2023, bodily injury claims averaged $95,000 per occurrence, making them the most expensive type of claim for our contractor customers.”

Passini recommends contractors talk with an independent insurance agent to ensure they have commercial auto insurance as part of their insurance policy. She noted, “Your insurance company can help you recover from accidents by reducing your financial risk. They also should help you improve your safety with loss control and risk management services.”

A.J. Gajdosik, Certified Safety Professional^® (CSP), has 30 years of experience helping contractors reduce risk. As a senior loss control representative at Acuity Insurance, Gajdosik works with contractors to improve their processes and operate more safely.

“Auto risk for contractors is different than other industries. Contractors go where the work is, often with tools, materials, and cargo in tow,” Gajdosik said. “To help lower the risk of this extra time on the road, it is important to implement a comprehensive driver and vehicle safety program. This helps ensure drivers are safety conscious and well-trained to handle various situations on the road. It can also help verify that vehicles are safe and in good condition.”

For contractors, Gajdosik recommends looking closely at the following areas because he says they present a higher risk compared to other industries.

• Cargo and Trailer Securement. Unsecured cargo and trailers can become dangerous projectiles in the event of a crash. An improperly secured load or trailer could result in injury, death, cargo damage, loss of load, vehicle damage, and citations, and it could even put a vehicle out of service, costing time and money. Contractors should train anyone driving for their business how to perform pre-trip inspections, safely secure loads and trailers, and determine the load capacity of a vehicle or trailer.
• Hired and Non-owned Auto Coverage. When an employee uses their vehicle for company business, it puts the company at risk for non-owned auto liability. Contractors should understand how their vehicles and drivers are covered. Contractors should set expectations for how and if their employees, temporary employees, and subcontractors use their vehicles for company business. It is important to train anyone driving for business purposes on standards, expectations, and what to do in the event of an accident.
• Lastly, contractors should check their drivers’ motor vehicle records at least annually to determine if they are safe drivers. A record of speeding or other citations puts the company at risk for larger claims. Contractors are encouraged to ensure all drivers regularly participate in safety training focused on driving skills and safe vehicle operation.

Contractors should talk with an independent insurance agent to discuss options for insurance to protect their business.

2024-07-29T16:53:25

(BPT) – Summertime can be a challenging and risky period for teenagers, as the extra free time and lack of structure can lead to boredom and often risky behaviors like distracted driving, drug or alcohol use and more. Adding to these concerns among parents and caregivers is added screentime, which can be tied to a spike in gambling behavior.

In fact, despite gambling being illegal for people under 18 in Minnesota, the National Council on Problem Gambling reports 60 to 80 percent of high schoolers have gambled in the past year, and teens are four times more likely to develop a gambling disorder than adults.

These facts should be a red flag for parents, according to the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG), an organization that provides resources and education to support people and families with gambling problems and gambling addiction.

“Teenagers have more access to mobile gambling than ever before, and summer break is a critical time for parents to talk to their teen about gambling while looking at signs of addictive behavior,” says Susan Sheridan Tucker, executive director, MNAPG. “While many parents are aware of the dangers that alcohol and drugs pose to teenagers, gambling is another serious issue that can lead to addiction and other high-risk behaviors that can derail a teen’s future.”

MNAPG notes there are also risk factors that make people under 18 more likely to develop a problem, such as an early experience with gambling, a family history of gambling addiction or substance addiction, as well as a personal history of substance abuse, depression or ADHD.

MNAPG offers these tips for parents and caregivers to address gambling with their teenager:

• Don’t engage your children in gambling activities or reward them with gambling-related items such as lottery tickets, pull tabs or poker chips.
• Listen to what they say about gambling and encourage an ongoing discussion.
• Let them know about the potential harms of gambling, as well as the differences between lower-risk play and risky gambling.
• Teach them about the odds and emphasize that “the house always wins in the long run.”

MNAPG says parents should look for possible signs of teen gambling, such as an increased amount of time spent on screens and if their teen has unexplained sources of money, as well as intense reactions during sporting events.

“We often see teenagers who are engaged with gambling losing interest in activities they once enjoyed and becoming more secretive,” says Sheridan Tucker. “The best thing parents can do is to be engaged with their teen and have a sense of the apps and sites their child is frequently visiting.”

As one solution, MNAPG offers free subscriptions to Gamban, an award-winning app that can be applied to smartphones and other devices to block online gambling sites and apps. The app also monitors progress by tracking the number of gamble-free days and the time and money saved. Parents can request a free subscription at www.mnapg.org/gambling-addiction/problem-gambler-resources.

And to address the absence of problem gambling education in Minnesota’s high schools, MNAPG has designed a digital toolkit to help high schools educate and spread awareness on the dangers of gambling. The Lead the Way to Safer Play toolkit focuses on safe gaming and gambling disorder, offering free printed materials for schools to order, plus turn-key social media content, educational pieces, customizable newsletter articles, sports public address announcements and more. Schools can request the kit online: https://school-toolkit.mnapg.org/.

2024-07-25T04:01:00

(BPT) – Like many little girls her age, 6-year-old Francesca loves her pets, mermaids, swimming, ice pops, playing with her brothers — and all things princess. Her favorite activities are jumping, sliding, swinging, playing with dolls and singing pop songs.

But this playful girl, known as “Frankie” to her family, has also been bravely fighting a rare nervous system disorder since she was 3 years old, which requires daily medications, plus frequent infusion appointments that can last up to seven hours. The condition can also impact her speech, motor and cognitive skills.

A wish from her heart

To help provide more fun, hope and positivity in her daily life, Make-A-Wish^® Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana partnered with nationwide retailer Big Lots to help make Frankie’s wish come true: she wanted a special place all her own, filled with everything she loves — in other words, the perfect princess playroom.

To help transform Frankie’s basement into her ideal princess playroom, a group of 30 Big Lots associate volunteers came together to include every detail they knew she would love, including a ball pit and slide, a swing, a chest stocked with art supplies, and of course, an armoire full of beautiful princess dresses. Many of the products used for creating the space came from Big Lots!

A representative from the Big Lots team said, “Seeing Frankie’s face when she saw the playroom for the first time was an experience our team will never forget.”

And her mother Estela was equally moved, saying, “We asked Make-A-Wish to create a space full of joy and excitement that Frankie can revisit every day. Big Lots and Make-A-Wish did just that.”

Partnerships that make wishes come true

Big Lots has been a proud local supporter of Make-A-Wish since 2009, and the company’s associates have been directly involved in granting the wishes of three children so far — with another planned for the upcoming fall.

“We grant more wishes during the summer than any other time of the year, making support from partners like Big Lots absolutely vital,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “Big Lots prides itself on helping people to ‘live big,’ and they’re making that sentiment a reality by helping grant wishes that can be truly life-changing for wish kids and their families.”

How everyone can help

Big Lots stores nationwide are helping to raise funds for Make-A-Wish this July by launching their first-ever in-store campaign as a national partner with Make-A-Wish. Customers can donate at the register when shopping in-store, and they’ll receive a coupon for $5 off their next purchase of $15 or more at Big Lots when they choose to donate.

This campaign aims to give children renewed energy and strength, bring families closer together during difficult times, and unite communities.

“Partnering with Make-A-Wish allows us to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses,” said Bruce Thorn, president and CEO, Big Lots. “We believe in the power of a wish to bring hope and joy to these courageous kids and their families, and it’s an honor to support Make-A-Wish through this campaign.”

Big Lots also encourages customers to leave messages for wish kids with special donation notes displayed in stores to help spread the hope and positive encouragement.

Learn how you can help grant wishes for children at wish.org.

2024-07-24T11:02:12

(BPT) – For many Gen Z-ers, scrolling on social media has become a primary source of entertainment and a tool for staying connected. In fact, the majority of Gen Z Americans report going on at least one social media platform each day. Reasons for turning to social media include combatting boredom (66%), the desire to laugh or smile (59%) or to see what’s happening in the world (49%).

However, often, when scrolling, the content isn’t necessarily what you were looking for — or worse, it causes stress or anxiety. In fact, over half of Gen-Zers (53%) said they are frustrated because what they see on their social media feeds doesn’t match what they want to see and just as many (54%) believe they have either “some,” “little,” or “no control at all” over the content that pops up on their feeds.

This data, from a new survey by LG Electronics and conducted by Talker Research, found 62% of Gen Z-ers wish they could just reset their feeds and start all over. The survey also found 73% of respondents associate at least one social media platform with a negative impact on their mental health.

According to social media expert and associate professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., algorithms play a significant role in the content you see, so understanding how they work is key to improving your feed.

“Algorithms are recommendations that determine what you see on social media by predicting content you’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send you down ever more specific niches — for good and bad. When left unchecked, you can quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content. The good news? You do have some control over the input for these algorithms: by choosing to engage with optimistic content, you’ll probably see more of it.”

Increasing optimistic content in your feeds

One way to improve your algorithm to include more positive content is to avoid engaging with negative content, and making a point to engage with content you actually want to see.

To help everyone have a positive experience and regain some control of social media feeds, LG created a global playlist called “Optimism Your Feed,” which is designed to bring more positivity to your social media feed.

“Optimism Your Feed” is part of LG’s Life’s Good campaign, introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude. Created in collaboration with global influencers renowned for their positive outlook, including Tina Choi, Victoria Browne and Josh Harmon, the playlist includes over 20 short-form videos full of motivational messages and feel-good content.

“When you see content on your feed that improves your mood, such as LG’s ‘Optimism Your Feed’ playlist, give it extra attention,” said Fiesler. “‘Like’ the content and leave positive comments on your favorite posts or videos. Giving upbeat, optimistic posts increased engagement means you’re more likely to see positive content like that in the future.”

How to get started

Nothing feels better than taking back a little control, so take action to make the time you spend on social media what you wanted it to be — opportunities to check in with friends, see what’s happening in your community and get a little lift to brighten your day.

LG’s global playlist gives you opportunities to see positive, uplifting posts every time you check out your social media. By being more conscious about what you choose to engage with, you can have more optimism, balance and happiness in your life.

It’s easy to start engaging with positive content today! Just go to LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood or YouTube channel @LGGlobal to check out the videos and subscribe if you like what you see. You can also visit the campaign page at LG.com/lifesgood.

2024-07-24T10:07:00

(BPT) – For many Gen Z-ers, scrolling on social media has become a primary source of entertainment and a tool for staying connected. In fact, the majority of Gen Z Americans report going on at least one social media platform each day. Reasons for turning to social media include combatting boredom (66%), the desire to laugh or smile (59%) or to see what’s happening in the world (49%).

However, often, when scrolling, the content isn’t necessarily what you were looking for — or worse, it causes stress or anxiety. In fact, over half of Gen-Zers (53%) said they are frustrated because what they see on their social media feeds doesn’t match what they want to see and just as many (54%) believe they have either “some,” “little,” or “no control at all” over the content that pops up on their feeds.

This data, from a new survey by LG Electronics and conducted by Talker Research, found 62% of Gen Z-ers wish they could just reset their feeds and start all over. The survey also found 73% of respondents associate at least one social media platform with a negative impact on their mental health.

According to social media expert and associate professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., algorithms play a significant role in the content you see, so understanding how they work is key to improving your feed.

“Algorithms are recommendations that determine what you see on social media by predicting content you’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send you down ever more specific niches — for good and bad. When left unchecked, you can quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content. The good news? You do have some control over the input for these algorithms: by choosing to engage with optimistic content, you’ll probably see more of it.”

Increasing optimistic content in your feeds

One way to improve your algorithm to include more positive content is to avoid engaging with negative content, and making a point to engage with content you actually want to see.

To help everyone have a positive experience and regain some control of social media feeds, LG created a global playlist called “Optimism Your Feed,” which is designed to bring more positivity to your social media feed.

“Optimism Your Feed” is part of LG’s Life’s Good campaign, introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude. Created in collaboration with global influencers renowned for their positive outlook, including Tina Choi, Victoria Browne and Josh Harmon, the playlist includes over 20 short-form videos full of motivational messages and feel-good content.

“When you see content on your feed that improves your mood, such as LG’s ‘Optimism Your Feed’ playlist, give it extra attention,” said Fiesler. “‘Like’ the content and leave positive comments on your favorite posts or videos. Giving upbeat, optimistic posts increased engagement means you’re more likely to see positive content like that in the future.”

How to get started

Nothing feels better than taking back a little control, so take action to make the time you spend on social media what you wanted it to be — opportunities to check in with friends, see what’s happening in your community and get a little lift to brighten your day.

LG’s global playlist gives you opportunities to see positive, uplifting posts every time you check out your social media. By being more conscious about what you choose to engage with, you can have more optimism, balance and happiness in your life.

It’s easy to start engaging with positive content today! Just go to LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood or YouTube channel @LGGlobal to check out the videos and subscribe if you like what you see. You can also visit the campaign page at LG.com/lifesgood.

2024-07-23T07:31:00

(BPT) – Extreme weather events cast shadows of worry, but modern power solutions can keep families safe and connected

Emergency preparedness is a practical necessity for every household, especially nowadays, as natural disasters hit harder and more often.

The first item on your preparedness checklist should be a well-stocked emergency kit that includes essentials like nonperishable food, water, first-aid supplies, flashlights and batteries. The second item should be a power supply to keep all your tech running at the time when you need it most.

While gas generators have traditionally served as the go-to solution for emergency power, they come with significant drawbacks. They’re noisy, emit harmful fumes, require fuel storage and can’t be used indoors. This is where portable power stations come in. These handy, compact alternatives offer a cleaner, quieter, more versatile option for keeping your devices charged and essential appliances running when the electricity goes down.

Portable power: Now more vital than ever

Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in extreme weather events, underscoring the critical importance of emergency preparedness. From record-breaking heatwaves to increasingly dangerous hurricane seasons to the arrival of “tornado clusters,” climate-driven disasters have not only torn apart landscapes and lives, they’ve exposed large holes in our power infrastructure. This makes access to electricity critical — for powering medical devices, preserving food, enabling communication and for heating or cooling.

“As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, we’re seeing a rising demand for reliable, portable power solutions,” said Alfonso Chen, CMO at Ampace. “These portable solutions provide backup power for everything from smartphones to household appliances, strengthening the resilience of every household in the face of prolonged outages.”

A range of solutions to keep you safe

Just as technology constantly evolves, so must the modern emergency-preparedness kit. Beyond the essentials like water and first-aid supplies, experts at Ampace now strongly recommend including a portable power station as part of your family’s emergency plan. Today’s solutions go beyond simple backup power, offering multiple layers of protection to ensure reliability in any crisis situation.

Modern portable power stations are built to withstand the toughest conditions. They feature sturdy construction to handle rough conditions and weather-resistant batteries designed for outdoor use. These power stations are also smart. They have built-in safety systems that can detect and prevent potential issues before they become problems. Perhaps most impressively, portable power stations from premium brands such as Ampace can provide stable power output even when temperatures plummet to as low as -4°F.

Steady supply for essential electronics

“Whether you’re dealing with a storm at home or exploring the great outdoors, staying connected and powered up is a top priority,” says Alfonso Chen at Ampace. “Portable power makes it easy to keep your smartphones, appliances and other electronics charged while on the go, ensuring constant connectivity and access to crucial information.”

Here are a few more reasons why having a portable power station like the Ampace Andes 1500 is more important than ever.

1: Large capacity. One of the most crucial considerations when selecting a portable power station is its power capacity, which determines how much electricity it can provide from a single charge. Large portable power stations with over 1000Wh can power most household appliances for several hours, making them ideal for off-grid living or back-up power during emergencies.

2: Fast charging. Cutting-edge portable power stations like the Andes 1500 can achieve a full charge in under an hour through wall charging, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, with flexible options to charge through solar panels or a car socket. This can save time when preparing for a trip, or when access to power is intermittent during emergencies. The Andes 1500 offers a superfast charging speed thanks to its A-Boost technology, going from zero to 100 percent charged in as little as 55 minutes — half the time of comparable power stations.

3: Multiple charging options. Modern portable power stations often feature multiple charging options, including wall outlets, solar panels and car sockets, ensuring users can recharge their devices in a variety of situations.

4: Longevity. The latest technology enables significantly extended lifespans, with some units capable of lasting through thousands of charging cycles. The Andes 1500 can run up to 6,000 cycles, twice that of comparable products.

5: Versatility. Many modern portable power stations can power a wide range of appliances, including those with power requirements as high as 3600W. This makes them suitable for various scenarios, from casual outdoor activities to more demanding applications during power outages.

Consumers should consider power stations that best fit their specific needs and circumstances. For example, options like the Andes 1500, Andes 600 Pro and Andes 300 offer different capacities and features to suit various requirements. Check out more about Ampace’s flagship portable power station Andes 1500 on Amazon and other models at ampacepower.com.

2024-07-22T12:11:00

(BPT) – Drivers have never been more charged up about electric vehicles, but there’s an important factor many don’t know about — choosing the right tires for EVs.

Electric vehicle sales in the United States doubled in 2023, according to J.D. Power. As a growing number of drivers enter the EV market, those consumers should also know that EVs come with unique challenges where the rubber meets the road.

Electric vehicles need tires that will help keep noise levels low. And their heavier weights and quick acceleration require tires that can withstand larger loads and more intense torque — all while delivering an efficient driving experience that gets the most out of each charge.

Global tiremaker Nokian Tyres has been testing tires on electric vehicles for more than a decade, and every tire they make comes with an Electric Fit marking that certifies it’s a seamless fit for EVs. As a leader in EV tire innovation, the company says drivers should look for the following four factors when choosing replacement tires that will help them get the most out of their EVs.

Weight

Electric vehicles are as much as 30% heavier than their internal combustion engine counterparts, according to The University of Tennessee’s Center for Transportation Research. Their heavy battery packs mean tires have to be sturdier.

The added weight can cause the wrong tires to stop too slowly, wear too quickly and struggle on challenging surfaces, such as rain or wintry precipitation. Tiremakers seek to account for the heavier load by constructing tires with heavier-duty materials and formulating rubber compounds to be more responsive to the road.

Noise

While EVs are making a lot of noise in the automotive market, their engines are virtually silent. The main sound drivers notice in the cabin is the noise of tires touching the road. Tire manufacturers seek to mitigate noise frequencies by using tread patterns, rubber compounds and materials that dampen sound waves.

Nokian Tyres inserts acoustic foam into its dedicated EV winter products, the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10 EV and R5 EV. Other tiremakers are making similar strides to cut down on cabin noise and deliver a peaceful driving experience that matches the smooth and silent nature of EVs.

Torque

Electric vehicles are powerful — Car and Driver reports that many can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in fewer than five seconds. That extra torque presents an extra challenge to tires, since rapid changes in speed can cause them to wear more quickly.

Drivers should pursue tires that can withstand that torque and deliver grip that maximizes their vehicles’ acceleration power. The key: tread patterns and rubber compounds that balance durability and responsiveness.

Range

Range anxiety is real. Numerous studies indicate that uncertain or low driving range per charge is one of the biggest barriers to entry for drivers who choose not to purchase an EV. Tires help deliver more efficient, predictable range per charge. The key: lowering rolling resistance, which is the amount of energy required to propel a vehicle along the road at a constant speed.

How do tiremakers lower the rolling resistance of their tires? Design plays a big role. According to Nokian Tyres, a tire’s sidewall construction, tread pattern and rubber compound play a role in reducing rolling resistance. More than 90% of Nokian Tyres’ products rank in the lowest categories of rolling resistance because the tire manufacturer prioritizes energy efficiency.

There’s little point in buying electric vehicles without also seeking tires designed to unlock their benefits. Nokian Tyres recommends tires that are tailored to handle EVs’ weight, noise levels, torque and range requirements. The result: a supercharged driving experience.

For more recommendations about EV tires, visit NokianTires.com/EVs.

2024-07-19T12:09:00

(BPT) – Getting away from your routine to recharge, renew and reset on vacation is great for your mind, body and spirit. But are you worried about the dent it can put in your wallet? Relax! You don’t need to break your budget to take a vacation with your partner, family or friends. You just need some travel-savvy tips to stretch your dollar.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has long been celebrated as a vibrant coastal destination, and is also a holiday haven that offers incredible value for visitors. Visit Myrtle Beach has even put together a Budget-Savvy Traveler Guide with insider information on things like the best happy hours in the area, free attractions, deals on lodging — everything you need to know to stretch those vacay dollars. They really have your back. It makes you wish every destination had a guide like that, right?

Here are some of their best tips for a cost-effective getaway in Myrtle Beach:

Book directly with the hotel or resort

Third-party booking sites are popular, but many hotels and resorts offer the best rates and even exclusive deals when you book directly with them through their websites. You’re also more likely to get free upgrades, complimentary breakfast and points or discounts on future stays.

Consider flexible dates

If you aren’t locked into a certain time frame, open up your plans to include flexible dates. Late summer or off-peak times may offer better rates and smaller crowds, and midweek stays are often less expensive, too. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on hotels and flights with an app like Hopper that can find great prices on hotels and flights and alert you it’s time to buy.

Look at discount airlines

Depending on your destination, you may find a discount carrier to get you there. Breeze Airways, Allegiant Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines and others can make travel affordable.

Travel with family and friends and consider splitting lodging

Vacationing with a group of friends or family is fun, first and foremost, but it also allows you to save money on lodging. Many resorts in Myrtle Beach offer multi-bedroom units with full kitchens and extra beds. These are perfect for larger groups, allowing you to split the cost while enjoying more space and amenities. You can also explore group discounts on accommodations and activities or consider a beach house vacation rental, which is far more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. Plus, you’ll have access to a full kitchen for meal prep. And about that kitchen…

Make use of the in-room kitchen

You don’t need to eat every meal out! When you get to your destination, zip to a nearby grocery store and stock up on coffee, yogurt, fruit, eggs, sliced meats and cheeses, snacks for the afternoon, or anything your group loves. Eating in for breakfast and lunch can save a significant amount of money, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Explore the local cuisine for happy hour and dinner and look out for special deals online!

Investigate lodging specials and packages

Before you book, check hotel and resort websites for special offers and packages that include extras like free nights, dining credits or tickets to attractions. Independent hotels, such as Brittain Resorts & Hotels or Vacation Myrtle Beach, often offer additional flexibility and special deals that you may not find with larger chains. And don’t forget to use every discount that’s available to you, including AAA, AARP or loyalty programs and points.

Take advantage of free attractions

In Myrtle Beach, the beach is the main attraction and it’s free! You can spend your days enjoying the sun, sand and surf without spending a dime. Also, look for local events and festivals like free concerts, fireworks and other family-friendly things to do. Does your family enjoy the great outdoors? Explore local parks, nature trails, and scenic spots that don’t charge an entrance fee. From parks and shopping areas to the Boardwalk, Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, and local gardens, many of Myrtle Beach’s popular attractions provide excellent value with free activities and events.

Find discounted attraction tickets

Before you go, look online for tickets for popular attractions. Booking ahead ensures you won’t be disappointed when you get there and find they’re sold out, but it also lets you find discounts and combo deals.

With these tips, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation without making too big a dent in your budget. For more information on what’s new in Myrtle Beach and to plan your next trip, head to www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com.