No matter what the prices are per gallon of gas, all of us can agree it's a smart idea to try to be as fuel-efficient as possible. Whether it's driving closer to the speed limit or keeping extra weight out of the car, small efforts add up to real savings. Here are two more easy ideas. If you live in a dry, dusty environment, change your air filters on a regular basis. A dirty filter can make your car work harder, which decreases fuel efficiency. And be sure you know what type of motor oil your car needs. The wrong oil can lead to decreased efficiency as well.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you know who one of the biggest sellers of names and addresses is, that results in your mailbox being flooded with junk mail? It's your credit card company. If you're tired of the 5 million tons of junk mail that is sent to Americans every year (typically ending up in landfills), you can help significantly decrease that amount by simply contacting your credit card company. Ask them to opt you out of any third-party mailing lists. And while you're at it, sign up at OptOutPreScreen.com to exclude yourself from receiving new credit card offers in the mail for five years.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When carving real pumpkins, one of the insider tricks to prevent the cut edges from deteriorating quickly is to smear them with petroleum jelly. This technique works because the jelly creates a barrier between the cut pumpkin and air, which can speed up the decomposition process. But petroleum jelly is not edible, and it's not biodegradable. Leaving pumpkins outdoors can invite critters to nibble at them, and that can lead to animals accidentally ingesting petroleum jelly. Instead of carving, opt for intact pumpkins, which will last longer and remain edible far after the Halloween holiday.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION