Hurricane's Flooding Hard on VehiclesMEMPHIS, Tenn., Sep 8, 2004 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- AutoZone (NYSE: AZO),
the nation's leading auto parts retailer, announced today it is continuing to
pull portable generators from all across the country into Florida to help out
in this time of crisis. "Since Hurricane Charley devastated central Florida
last month, AutoZone has been pulling generators from 3,300 other AutoZone
stores and distribution centers across the country to have them available to
our Florida customers," said Mike Longo, the company's Senior Vice President
of Merchandising. "Now, with Hurricane Frances and whatever future storms may
bring, AutoZoners are working around the clock to ensure we have the right
products to help in the relief and restoration efforts."
"As of today, there are about 100 portable generators available in
AutoZone stores in the affected areas of Florida and the company is doing
everything possible to acquire additional units," Longo said. In addition to
the portable generators, AutoZone also has gas cans, tarps, flashlights and
batteries to service customers' needs.
Much attention has been placed on restoring power and rebuilding homes and
businesses. However, vehicles are highly susceptible to damage during high
winds, rain and particularly flooding. AutoZone urges its customers to check
their vehicles' transmission fluid and engine oil for signs of water
contamination. "It's easy to do. You can identify water contamination by milky
colored oil and water on your vehicle's dipstick. If your vehicle has been
contaminated, you need to change your oil and filter immediately to prevent
costly engine damage," Longo said.
Other automotive products expected to be in high demand in the affected
areas of Florida include car batteries, air filters, fuel filters, wheel
bearing grease, starters, alternators, vehicle computers and control modules.
About AutoZone:
As of May 8, 2004, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals
and accessories through 3,337 AutoZone stores in 48 states plus the District
of Columbia in the U.S. and 60 AutoZone stores in Mexico and also sells the
ALLDATA brand automotive diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone
sells diagnostic and repair information through http://www.alldatadiy.com and
auto and light truck parts through http://www.autozone.com .
SOURCE AutoZone, Inc.
Media, Ray Pohlman, +1-901-495-7962, or
ray.pohlman@autozone.com , or Financial, Brian Campbell, +1-901-495-7005, or
brian.campbell@autozone.com
http://www.autozone.com