8 Simple Gas-Saving Tips

Though it has been criticized by environmental interests, Canada's recent oil sands development offers promising implications for global oil prices. Still, until that market is fully fleshed out with functional pipelines and transportation, gas prices are just as volatile as the politically unstable fields that the fuel is harvested from. Read on for eight easy tips to save you money by maximizing your fuel efficiency. 

• Shy away from high-speed driving. The faster you drive, the more aerodynamic drag your car has to contend with. An extra 20km/h increases fuel consumption by about 15%.

• Keep your lead foot in check.Try to anticipate the ebb and flow of traffic so that you can limit yourself to steady acceleration and braking. This can increase fuel economy significantly.

• Stay on top of your tire inflation. Every time your tire PSI falls 2 notches below the recommended level, you lose about 1% of fuel efficiency.

• Don't overwork your air-conditioner. A/C subjects your engine to extra stress, causing a significant increase in fuel consumption. The same is true for the defroster setting. 

• Keep your windows shut! An open window equates to an increase in drag, which makes your gas less efficient on gas.

• Stay on top of vehicular maintenance. Poor fuel economy is commonly associated with soiled air filters, worn-out spark plugs, and sub-optimal fluid levels.

• Control your cruising speed. The cruise control option eliminates the constant revving and braking that occurs when drivers try to manually manage acceleration. Keeping fixed at a constant speed increases your gas efficiency over time.

• Lighten the load. Some recommend loading your car's rear end with weight for extra traction during the winter, but be warned that this burdens your engine and decreases fuel efficiency. Clear out any unnecessary items when possible.

Safe Winter Driving Advice

Much of the motivation for Speers Auto Glass' commitment to quality windshield repair comes from their respect for safety. As we enter into the heavy winter months, safety on the road becomes even more of a priority. Beyond the improved visibility and protection from the elements that a well-repaired windshield can provide, there are some active technical tips that can help ensure safe winter driving. Read on for some important driving tips to help keep you safe through the storms this year. 

• Know when to stay home. The first and most important piece of advice to keep you safe this winter is to not be afraid to stay off the roads. Braving dangerous road conditions should not happen unless absolutely necessary. If you must venture out in poor conditions, at least delay your trip to give sanding and salting crews the opportunity to cover major road ways. 

• See and be seen. Visibility is key. Make sure your windshield is in good condition, with no obstructive cracks. Replace your windshield wipers – most people are due anyway. Consider a water-shedding solution like Rain-X to help you cut through storms. Give the inside of your windshield a thorough wash. Always be sure your headlights and brake lights are clear of snow, and use them all day long to promote visibility. 

• Learn to correct a skid. For front-tire skids, you simply need to take your foot off the gas, keep your hands in place, and give the car an opportunity to decelerate. 

What to Include in your Winter Roadside Kit

It can be quite hard trying to find someone in a Canadian community that has never had the misfortune of being stuck in snow. Whether they blundered into a ditch or were buried overnight, there are countless stories about chilling roadside waits for help to arrive. Because unpredictable winter weather conditions can victimize anyone, it is important to carry a roadside kit in every vehicle you own. Assembling one of these kits is a small investment that can literally be the difference between life or death in the event of an accident. Furthering this month's theme of winter safety tips, we present to you a simple guide to help you assemble a functional roadside kit.  

• First aid first. The most important piece of your roadside arsenal is the fist aid kit. A few bandaids won't do. Include bandages, tweezers, scissors, sanitary latex gloves, tape, medications, rubbing alcohol, and antiseptic solutions. 

• Tools. You may need to tackle impromptu roadside repairs. Don't forget a screwdriver, wrench, hammer, jack, jumper cables, vice grip, or folding knife. Of course, in the winter this list will also include an ice scraper and shovel. 

• Warming items. Long waits can be very dangerous at roadside without a good collection of blankets, gloves, socks, and hats in your vehicle. You may also consider chemical hand-warmers and mylar blankets.  

• Flashlight. You will need to see, whether you are doing a roadside medical treatment, repair, or just a bit of reading to pass the time. Bring multiple flashlights and back-up batteries. 

• Stay seen. Pack small fluorescent cones and flares to alert drivers of your condition, and to keep them from colliding with you. 

• Food. Non-perishable items only. Protein bars, granola bars, beef-jerky, and dried fruits are recommended. 

• Find an appropriate duffel bag. Keep everything together in one kit so that items aren't rolling under car seats, costing you searching time in an emergency situation. Find a big and rugged duffel bag that can hold all of your items.