Avoid pain at the pump with a few simple steps

By Megan Davis |Staff Writer|

Temperatures have begun to drop and everyone will soon be getting in the holiday spirit in anticipation of Halloween and Thanksgiving.
One not so pleasant change however is the sky-high gas prices that seemed to erupt overnight.
The Los Angeles Times reported that the rise of gas prices is due to the temporary power failure of Exxon Mobil Corp, a refinery in Torrance that did not resume production until Oct. 5.
Another key refinery was forced to cut back on production when it experienced a major fire in August.
High gas prices are of particular concern for many of our students that make the daily commute to campus.
With the already enormous cost of tuition and books, plus the additional cost of a parking permit, one must wonder if the spike in gas prices will allow students to drive to class.
“Between tuition, books and everyday expenses, this spike in gas prices may be the one thing that makes it too much for one student to handle,” said student Karina Mezar.
“Unfortunately, more expensive gas means I have to take money away from other areas in my budget, like school supplies,” said student Lindsey Daniel.
According to USA Today, Governor Jerry Brown has asked the Air Resources Board to permit the use of cheaper gas that is usually not available for use until after Oct. 31.
Normally this type of gas is not permitted this early in the year because it is more harmful to our air quality during warm weather since it evaporates into the air quicker than the gasoline sold during the summer.
Denton Cinquegrana, executive editor of the Oil Price Information Service, stated that it would be reasonable to expect prices to make its way back down to about $4.15 a gallon by Thanksgiving.
Until then, there are some ways to protect your bank accounts from those gas prices.
First, if you are a commuter, try and find a student who lives close to you that you can arrange a carpool.
Bonus points would be given if that person is in your class so you can study for those midterms we have coming up.
“With the rising gas prices I’m lucky that I carpool with my friend. If I didn’t carpool it would make me reconsider driving to school for every class,” said student Haley Lowe.
Second, for those of you a part of the smartphone community, you can download the free “Gas Buddy” app onto your phone. It will tell you the closest gas station with the cheapest gas nearest to you.
Even if it only saves you a few cents, it is worth it during these hard times.
Finally, if you live close enough to campus to consider purchasing a discounted bus pass or even ride your bike to school, you would be doing yourself and the environment a favor.
While it may not be the most convenient way to get to campus, you will save time, money and give yourself a nice leg work out to boot.