OPEC Oil Squeeze Prompts AAA to Issue Gas-Saving Guidelines
22 March 2000
OPEC Oil Squeeze Prompts AAA to Issue Gas-Saving Guidelines
ORLANDO, Fla.--March 22, 2000--For the fifth time in its 98-year history AAA today issued a set of fuel-conservation instructions for motorists struggling with the strain of record-high fuel prices.AAA's energy conservation guidelines, contained in the booklet "AAA Gas Watcher's Guide" are available from AAA clubs and in abbreviated form on-line at www.aaa.com/news.
"AAA recognizes the steep increase in gasoline prices brought on by OPEC's oil squeeze during the last 12 months has created a hardship on millions of American motorists," said Susan Pikrallidas, vice president AAA Public and Government Relations.
AAA previously issued fuel conservation guidelines during World War II, the two oil embargoes of the 1970s and the Persian Gulf War in 1990.
"The Gas Watcher's Guide will be helpful to all motorists, especially younger drivers accustomed to paying low gas prices, and those on smaller or fixed incomes," Pikrallidas said.
The guide is a 12-page brochure that covers a variety of ways motorists can save fuel and money, while driving safely and protecting the environment.
The advice contained in the Gas Watcher's Guide encourages motorists to systematically rethink their approach to day-to-day driving. Some of the key tips contained in the guide are:
| -- | Change driving attitudes. Make fuel conservation top-of-mind when choosing which vehicle to drive, the distance of the destination, and what trips and errands to run. |
| -- | Consider driving style consequences. Save fuel by slowing down, maintaining steady speeds and avoiding rapid acceleration and sudden stops. Leave plenty of time to reach destinations and don't let the engine idle. |
| -- | Don't be fuelish. Shop for the lowest gas price with your steering wheel, but don't drive excessive miles hoping to save a few cents per gallon. |
| -- | Practice good vehicle maintenance by making certain tires are properly inflated, the air filter is clean, the engine and chassis are properly lubricated and spark plugs are in good condition. |
| -- | Check your vehicle owner's manual to make certain the grade of gasoline being purchased is the correct one. Most vehicles are designed to operate on lower cost regular gasoline. |
| -- | Save money by considering car pools and public transportation as a form of commuting if available. Car pools for school and children's activities can also cut fuel costs. |
| -- | High gas prices don't have to mean high vacation costs. AAA clubs offer members and other travelers advice for planning energy-efficient getaways. |
"Effective use of energy is learned behavior. To conserve we must slow down and find ways to do more with less," Pikrallidas said. "The benefits of fuel conservation are a healthier environment, financial savings and improved safety on our roads."
AAA news releases are available from http://www.aaa.com/news