Gardai have issued a warning reminding people to take caution on winter mornings for one particular reason.
Many people around the country woke up to frosty conditions this morning, causing delays to their morning commute.
While some may try to defrost the car by running it, this can prove to be problematic in a number of ways.
First of all, it’s actually illegal to leave a car unattended while it’s heating up, with fines and jail time on the cards for those who ignore this.
However, it can also result in your car being taken from you - and not by the Gardai.
In a Facebook post on Monday morning, Gardai in Waterford, Kilkenny and Carlow issued a warning on how "idling" your engine could invite thieves to steal your vehicle.
The post said: “Well Monday came around like an icy sledgehammer bringing an end to any lie ins.
"As well as making school lunches, feeding the dog, dressing the kids make sure and clear those windscreens and front side windows.
"Don't leave an unattended vehicle running in a public place, someone could take it and your insurance would be likely invalid."
Leaving a car unattended while it heats up has been labelled “too risky” by Gardai in the past.
Gardai for the Donegal division said: "Freezing conditions at night mean frozen car windscreens in the mornings but please do not start your car in order to defrost it and leave it unattended particularly in a built up area. It is much too risky.
"Do not make life easy for opportunist thieves who would be only too happy to take your motor off your hands!
"When defrosting your vehicle, defrost externally by using de-icer or warm water, or if you turn on your car please remain inside your car and take the time to defrost windscreens thoroughly.
"Never leave your car unattended while it is unlocked or while the engine is running.
"Please also ensure that your tyres and wipers are adequate for cold driving conditions."
