When it comes to buying gas, know before you go.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says gasoline pump prices have climbed more than 35 cents a gallon in the first two weeks of March, making the price increase the second largest ever recorded by the government over a two-week period. According to AAA, the average price of gasoline on 3/8 was $3.52 a gallon.

A new survey says the average price of regular gasoline in the United States has jumped to $4.06 per gallon in the final two weeks of March. Colorado had the lowest average price among states surveyed at $3.46 a gallon for regular. Hawaii was the highest among surveyed areas at $4.31.

In Chico where I live, the price varies widely from week to week and station to station. My advice to you is to know before you go. In other words, do your homework before you head out the door. A quick internet search can reveal the best locations to fill your tank. Today alone I found a 37 cent price difference with Ledford Valero at 2233 Esplanade being the cheapest @ $372.9.

Prices are high and will continue to rise ever higher as we head into the summer driving season. A few minutes of effort on your part could save you hundreds of dollars by the end of the year. Find a site that is updated daily and add it to your favorites at home, work and on your I-Phone, you'll be glad you did.

Not in Chico, how much are you paying? Let me know!

Two of the sites I use are: gasprices.mapquest.com or gasbuddy.com/