Speaker 1, a staff member with the Transportation Commission, walked through a six-step procedure for installing tire chains and other traction devices, advising drivers to lay chains parallel to the tire, remove slack, straighten cross chains, rotate the tire about one-quarter of a turn, tighten with a cam tool, and secure the chains with bungee cords.

The demonstration focused on correct fitting and tensioning to improve traction in winter conditions. Speaker 1 said drivers should “pull the chains tight and neat” and leave enough slack at the bottom of the tire to hook the chain before driving a short distance to seat the chains.

According to the walkthrough, the presenter recommended these steps: lay chains out parallel to the tire with the tighteners facing outward; pull the chains over the tire while removing slack and straightening cross chains from top to bottom; move the vehicle forward or back about one-quarter of a tire rotation so there is room to connect the bottom links; hook the horizontal chain links and make final adjustments; use a cam tool to turn each tightener clockwise to tension the chain; and attach bungee cords or other approved securing devices to hold the chains in place. The speaker noted some drivers may use alternative traction devices such as double tire chains or “auto socks.”

Speaker 1 also cautioned that chains can shift when the vehicle is moved to seat them and advised rechecking and readjusting tension after the initial drive. The presenter concluded by advising drivers to be familiar with the use of any traction device they carry: “Please make sure you are versed on the application of these devices, if you have them.”

No vehicle types, chain sizes, speed limits, or regulatory citations were specified in the demonstration, and no formal action or vote was recorded on this topic during the meeting.