How
to Get That Extra Mile...
Smart Tips for Summer Driving
Trips
to the cottage, days out at the park,
lake or beach, family reunions — summer driving season is upon us... and gas prices
are steadily moving higher.
While
many families are cutting down on trips to save the gas money, there are alternatives
to a summer cooped up in the house. Learn how to get the most out your gas tank.
"What
better time to fuel up on tips to maximize your vehicle's gas mileage, minimize
hazards and make your next road trip the smoothest ever," says Caroline Papadatos,
Vice President of Marketing for the Air Miles Reward Program which partners with
more than 1,600 Shell retail locations across Canada.
Maximizing
Gas Mileage
Routine
maintenance will save fuel, boost your vehicle's reliability and resale value
and minimize emissions.
So
keep tires properly inflated and wheels aligned. Tires at the wrong pressure cause
your gas milage to go down. Invest in a tire gauge and use it. The optimum pressure
for your tires should be in your owner's manual and also posted in the doorframe
of your car. Check for it and enjoy the extra miles per gallon you'll earn!
Keeping
to the speed limit is not only safer, but generally more fuel efficient than driving
at higher speeds. If your car has a cruise control, set it for the speed limit
and let the car feed the gas. Slowing and speeding up takes more gas than riding
at a steady pace.
Combine
errands into one outing while you are home, but enjoy your road trip — trips less
than five kilometres burn more fuel than longer drives. If you get caught in really
bad bumper-to-bumper traffic or stop for a potty break, think about turning off
the engine instead of letting the car idle for long periods. An engine idling
for more than 10 seconds burns more fuel than it takes to restart.
Select
the recommended fuel and octane level for your vehicle. as well as diesel options.
Also look for loyalty
programs that offer added value on your fuel and other service station purchases.
Plan
Ahead
Drinks
and healthy snacks in the car are a necessity, when travelling with children,
as are age and car appropriate toys, games, CDs and DVDs, and a change of clothing
in case of spills.
Schedule
regular rest stops or take a break when you stop for fuel. Many gas stations offer
convenience stores stocked full of essentials. You'll also find lots of extra
services like cash machines and washrooms.
Safety
First
Summer
brings increased traffic to the roads, so staying calm, alert and driving at safe
speeds are vital.
Make
sure everyone is buckled up and babies and young children are secured in properly
installed car and booster seats. Tie down loads to ensure you have a clear view.
Take a break from driving when you feel tired or share the drive with your partner.
"Safety
is just as important when you stop for fuel," says Gord Reid, Shell's Retail Safety
Manager. "Turn the vehicle engine off when refueling and use only approved containers
to transport extra fuel. Smoking, or using lighters or matches, and use of cell
phones are strictly prohibited at the pumps."
