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Did you know that today is the third annual “Dump the Pump Day?” In honor of skyrocketing gas prices, commuters all across the country are encouraged to use public transportation instead of personal vehicles. With skyrocketing gas prices, ridership is up 15% - 40% in cities like Chicago, Miami and Boston. Most public transportation is subsidized by your tax dollars so if you can ride the bus or subway a few days a week, you can put some of your tax dollars back in your pocket!

If using public transportation is out of the question for you, there are some things you can do to save a few bucks at the gas pumps, maybe start your own “Pass the Pump”program.

• Carpool. Is it possible that you and a co-worker (or co-workers) could commute at least once a week to work or school? Even Dagwood Bumstead carpools!
• Work from home. Does your employer have a “work at home policy?” Even one or two days a week could save you tons per year. If no official policy, it might be worth asking if you’re a trusted, productive employee.
• Commute during non-peak times. If you’re part of the 8-5 crowd, can you change your work hours to 7 - 3 or 9 - 6? By steering clear of peak rush hour traffic, you’ll get better gas mileage by not spending your time idling in traffic. And, if your city times traffic lights, the reduced off-peak traffic might be light enough to minimize stop-and-go traffic patterns which are real mpg killers.
• Bring lunch, coffee and snacks to work. Do you hop in your car each day to grab a latte from Starbucks or a burger for lunch? These little trips could be costing you more than you know. Try brown-bagging it and packing a thermos a few times a week.