Gas Moment

Well, the big thing in most people's lives right now is gas prices. If the pundits are right, there will be higher and higher prices for the foreseeable future. A rather daunting thought for the future, but one we must consider.

So, what can we do as individuals? The first and most obvious thing we could do, if we could afford it, would be to buy a car with excellent mileage. Of course many cannot do that.

AAA experts offer the following ideas, all of which the average driver can and should do?

Accelerate slowly and drive the speed limit.

Underinflated tires can cost 2% of fuel mileage, so inflate to the proper pressure. Inflate only when the tires are cold.

Get a tuneup and replace dirty air filters.

Do not use multigrade or premium fuel unless the manufacturer requires it.

Take all the extra stuff you carry around out of the car. Your car is not a storage facility. Even take the ski rack off the top until you are actually going to use it.

If you are interested in buying a car, try the web site cars.com for a comparison of car fuel mileage.

Lastly, an interesting tidbit from UPS's system for fuel savings. They plan routes for their drivers that have the least left turns because of the wait time for left turns which takes gas while the trucks are idling. Now that is forward thinking!