Baldacci unveils ‘Fuel-Wise’ effort

AUGUSTA – State officials unveiled a statewide “Fuel-Wise” campaign Wednesday aimed at getting Maine drivers to reduce their driving costs as well as pollutants causing global warming and unhealthy air.

“Gas prices are now predicted to hit the levels we saw last fall following Hurricane Katrina,” said Beth Nagusky, director of the state’s Office of Energy Independence and Security. “We know that these high prices create hardship for the people of Maine. Simple vehicle maintenance and driving tips can reduce gas bills significantly.”

The campaign, which Gov. John Baldacci helped announce during a press conference in Augusta, will feature radio public service announcements by Olympic gold medalist Joan Benoit Samuelson and Maine humorist Gary Crocker. The 30- and 60-second spots offer tips to drivers that will cut their fuel costs, including: keeping cars tuned up, carpooling, driving the speed limit, avoiding sudden stops and starts, and other smart driving measures that can double a vehicle’s gas mileage.

The public service announcements, which will continue through the end of September, also urge drivers to visit the exploremaine.org Web site where they can fill out a brief survey and download a complete list of “21 Fuel-Wise Tips.” Visitors to the site can also enter to win a fuel-efficient electric bike. The winner of the drawing will be announced this fall at the campaign’s close.