Gas prices have northerners pushing it to the limit

CAA North & East Ontario
News Release

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CAA North & East Ontario Notices a Slight Increase in Fuel Service Calls

Ottawa, July 11, 2008- The ever-increasing cost of fuel has some Canadian drivers pushing the limits of their gas tanks, leading to some unfortunate consequences. CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) wishes to remind motorists to plan ahead and keep their vehicle's gas tank at least a quarter full to avoid running out of gas on roads or highways.

CAA's Emergency Roadside Service offers Basic Members three service calls a year, and Plus Members receive four. If a Basic Member runs out of gas, the delivery of the fuel is free but they are charged for the gas provided. CAA Plus Members receive 10 litres of fuel free of charge, enough to get them safely to the nearest gas station.

In comparing the number of fuel service calls between May and June of last year (2007) with this year (2008), there were 237 calls last year and 240 calls this year, indicating a 1.25 percent increase in calls throughout North & East Ontario. Although CAANEO has only seen a slight increase in the number of motorists calling roadside assistance to deliver fuel after they've run out on the side of the road or highway, it is important to realize the negative impact that driving on an empty tank has on your vehicle.

Driving on empty can seriously damage your vehicle and will negatively impact your fuel efficiency in the long run. The gas at the bottom of a fuel tank contains a large amount of sediment (rust, dirt and other debris). When gas levels dip too low, this sediment can clog the fuel pump and cause damage to the fuel injector and fuel filter. Keeping at least a quarter tank of gas in your car at all times will prevent this as well as other problems (such as the fuel pump overheating) that often lead to expensive repairs.

"It has been rumoured that some motorists are taking advantage of our Emergency Roadside Service to fill up their vehicle for free, however, this is factually incorrect," said Korey Kennedy, Manager of Public and Government Affairs at CAANEO. "In reality, an Emergency Fuel Service call is designated to assist stranded motorists by providing enough fuel to get them safely to the nearest gas station, and in no way is it a viable alternative to paying for gas and keeping your fuel tank at least a quarter full."

Ultimately, by taking a moment to fuel up, motorists eliminate the risk of not only wasting time by breaking down on the side of the road, but also wasting money by having to pay for costly repairs. For safe and reliable alternatives to driving on empty, motorists looking to save on gas this summer should plan a route before leaving, avoid speeding, use air-conditioners sparingly, lighten their load, and, most importantly, bring their vehicle in for regular service and maintenance.

For over 100 years, the Canadian Automobile Association has provided travel, Emergency Road Services, Insurance, and Advocacy for its Members. CAA North & East Ontario continues to be the leading membership organization by recognizing and promoting its heritage and integrity in the community, while maximizing Members' value.

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