With temperatures in the morning dipping into the teens, drivers may be tempted to leave cars running, so it's nice and warm when they get inside.

But police are reminding motorists not to do that -- it can end up costing you a fine for leaving a vehicle unattended.

"More importantly, you are practically giving your vehicle away to a thief if you leave it running and unattended," said Kennewick police Sgt. Ken Lattin.

Lattin said a car can be left running in a driveway or parking lot as long as it locked. A car can be left running on a street, driveway or parking lot if it has a properly installed remote starter system, he said.

Through September, Kennewick police have investigated 114 reports of stolen cars, an increase of 27 percent over last year, he said.

"Please help us keep thieves out of your vehicle by ensuring that your car is not left unattended with the motor running this winter season," he said.