It's sure no secret that fuel costs are soaring today, higher than ever before in history. To help combat costs, here are some fuel economy tips for you to use and share with your family and friends.

1) When you need to get somewhere, plan ahead. If you must drive, choose the vehicle that uses the least amount of gas. If you can instead, find a bus that is going your way or seek drive-share or carpooling options.

2) Avoid traveling during peak hours and peak tourist seasons when possible. This saves money on higher fuel costs plus cuts down on traffic congestions, air pollution, stress, fuel waste idling at clogged road arteries, and more. Opt for less busy seasons and times to drive around.

3) Walk, ride your bike or check into getting a motorcycle license. You may travel shorter distances and spend a little more at local convenient stores, but in the long run you'll save on fuel consumption, car maintenance and pollution.

4) Drive sensibly, without emotions involved, and according to the law. Speeding wastes fuel, not to mention breaks the law and can be costly money-wise and driving-wise (you could end up without a license). And racing / flooring / gunning the engine after a stop light wastes fuel and pollutes, causing needless engine systems strain in the process.

5) Do not drink and drive. This waste fuel with mindless driving around missing turns, and ends too many lives. Ask a friend, cab driver or other person to help. Better yet, don't drink - especially when you are the designated driver.

6) Remember how parents used to warm up cars before going anywhere, especially during cold winter seasons? This idling wastes fuel. And today, there is no longer a need for this with improved vehicle systems. In fact 30 seconds of warm up idling is plenty.

7) Keep #6 in mind when you stop for fast food pickups, banking and other drive-through needs. Instead of wasting fuel with your car running while you wait your turn, park your car and go inside. Get exercise, have more time and patience and even network and smile, enjoying your outing. Any idling over 45 seconds while you wait is too long and wastes fuel.

Lighten your load and save on fuel. The more your car has to carry around, the more fuel it takes. So stop storing all that junk in your trunk and throughout your car. Toss the crap or store it in containers or other places in your home or shed.

9) Use less or no air conditioning in your car. When you use this instead of windows rolled down, you waste 10 to 20 percent of your fuel. It the worst case scenario, cool your vehicle with air conditioning, then shut it off, keeping windows rolled up to keep the air cool inside as long as possible. Then use again intermittently.

10) Stop riding the brake pedal. Only use the brake to slow and stop. Some people use it along with their accelerator pedal - a no-no.

Print out these fuel economy tips and keep them handy. Share them with friends and loved ones, too, online and off, to help others save money and fuel!