Doing this, although it seems like it would be no big deal, could get you into trouble this winter - and all year round.

 

With the extreme cold about to hit the Rockford area is it important to remember that you are advised not to leave your vehicle unattended while running. Mechanics and auto experts will say you do not need to warm up your car for more than a minute when driving in cold temperatures. The engine warms up faster when the vehicle is moving.

If you are caught with your vehicle running without you in it, even in your own driveway or at the gas staton, you can be ticketed up to $125 in Illinois.

(625 ILCS 5/11-1401) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 11-1401) 
    Sec. 11-1401. Unattended motor vehicles. No person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition, effectively setting the brake thereon and, when standing upon any perceptible grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway. 

 

Dress warm to make the cold more tolerable when you're about to embark on a freezing cold driving adventure.

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5