With gas prices breaking records, here are some ways to cope

Washington state’s average gas price was $4.72 per gallon March 21, according to AAA. That’s nearly 40 cents more than the previous state record from 2008, which was broken at the beginning of the month. The new record, as of March 15, is $4.74 per gallon. 

A month ago the state average was $3.98, and a year ago it was $3.31.

In Blaine, gas prices at Hill’s Chevron on Peace Portal Drive and Yorky’s Market on Boblett Street were $4.79 and $4.69 per gallon March 21, while the national average was $4.25. 

While nations brace for conflict as Russia continues its invasion into Ukraine, an increase in demand and decreased supply explains the rising prices this month. And prices don’t appear to be dropping anytime soon.

Here are ways to save on gas, lower use and increase efficiency:

Track prices: Knowing what gas station has the cheapest prices may be the most obvious strategy for a consumer looking to save. Apps like AAA TripTik and GasBuddy can track down the cheapest prices around.

Routine maintenance: Rotate tires every six months or 6,000-8,000 miles and check tire pressure once a month. Under-inflated tires tend to decrease mileage (and traction). Also, a vehicle runs smoother if kept clean. 

Drive smooth: Aggressive driving like speeding and fast accelerations wastes fuel. To save gas, drive at moderate and consistent rates of speed. Driving the speed limit, or even under, will increase mileage. Reduce drag by keeping windows and sunroof closed at high speeds.

In a manual transmission vehicle, pay attention to revolutions per minute and shift into a high gear as soon as is reasonable. Driving at high speeds in lower gears burns excessive fuel. 

Pay with cash: Gas prices are often 10-15 cents cheaper if paid for with cash. 

Travel light: Don’t haul heavy loads if you don’t have to. Extra weight in the car can drag on the engine and consume extra gas.

Carpool: Ridesharing is a great way to split the cost of gas and reduce use. Find people to carpool to and from work, school and other activities. 

Public transit: Whatcom Transportation Authority route 75 offers hourly travel from Blaine to Bellingham through Birch Bay and Ferndale. A general day pass is $3 and monthly pass is $30. Student pricing is half off and youth can ride for free.

Bike or walk: Avoiding use of a vehicle altogether will surely save gas. If work or school is only a couple of miles away, consider riding a bike or walking. Both are great healthy and environmentally friendly modes of travel.