One thing is clear, amid all the finger pointing over the rash of rollover accidents involving Firestone tires and Ford Explorers. Regardless of whether the blame lies with Firestone or Ford, all parties agree that excessive heat causes some treads to peel off the tires.

Every new car comes with a recommendation on tire pressure, usually around 25 to 30 pounds per square inch. Ford has just upped its recommendation for the Explorer from 26 to 30 psi.

Lower pressure makes for a smoother ride, but it increases the heat. That’s because an under-inflated tire is flatter where it meets the road. The flat spot returns to its regular shape until it meets the road again. This constant flattening and rounding can produce a lot of heat, especially at high speeds.

Tread separation is not limited to the tires being recalled. The remains of peeled-off treads are a common sight on any freeway, particularly in hot weather.

Automobile and tire manufacturers agree on a simple precaution: check the pressure frequently. Get your own gauge, because the gauges at filling stations can vary. Check the pressure when the car has been parked for at least three hours, so that the tires are cool.

And when they heat up in use and the pressure has increased, don’t let out some air to get the pressure down to the proper level. If you do, the tires will wind up under-inflated.