Ask your friends, neighbors, or colleagues and they’ll all tell you that the most enjoyable things about summer is the surf and sun. A day at the beach can feel like a mini-vacation to many. But if you don’t plan properly, it could turn into a nightmare. Firestone Complete Auto Care wants to share these tips with you to help you prepare for your summer beach trip.

* Make sure your vehicle’s fluids and filters are fresh and the air conditioner is working properly, as this will help keep your vehicle cool in the summer heat.

* Avoid overloading your vehicle, as too much weight in the vehicle can decrease your gas mileage and create excessive heat inside your tires.

* When driving on sand, point your vehicle’s wheels straight ahead when starting off. This will make it easier for your vehicle to move forward.

* If you get stuck in the sand, reverse out. Slowly reverse your vehicle on its own tracks, then slowly go forward. Be sure to remove any sand from under or behind your vehicle before you attempt to reverse.

* Once you get home, remove all traces of sand, dirt or salt from your vehicle after a beach trip. Pay special attention to the areas where sand can accumulate, such as the mudguards.

* Make sure to check your tire pressure on all four tires and your spare at least once per month and before every long trip. Make sure they are at the recommended pressure.

Firestone Complete Auto CareWe also recognize that rising gas costs could keep your family from taking a road trip to the beach this summer. Gasonomics is an online resource designed to help you save money on the gas pump. http://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/gasonomicsFirestone Complete Auto Care offers money-saving tips, special offers and the ability to find the best gas prices near you.