Winter weather brings a lot of things, but one of the most obnoxious ones is the snow and ice that block your windshield's view. While, the option to sit in your car and patiently wait for it to heat up enough to be able to drive away

Snow-covered street and cars with a lonely pedestrian. Heavy snowstorm
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Not all of us have a garage that we can safely heat and store our cars inside, so you may be stuck with trying to find an alternative way to to get the snow and ice off their cars without leaving their motor running.

Grand Rapids Police are also warning that now that car thefts are on the rise in the area, it's more important than ever not to leave your vehicle running unattended.

Here are some tips from experts on how you can get your car on the road without all of the extra waiting

1. Purchase De-Icer

This one seems obvious, but de-icing fluid is one of the greatest ways you can get your car out from under the frost without the heat of your car.

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Or, if you're in a pinch and don't have it on hand right now...

2. Use an alternative de-icer

Don't have de-icer from the store? Don't panic- you can make your own!

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Some things that work well include pickle juice (yes, the high salt concentrate can break down that pesky ice) a saltwater mix, or an alcohol and water combination. Just whatever you do- DON'T USE HOT WATER. While it may see tempting, that's a great way to accidentally crack your windshield.

3. Grab a straw!

This advice works more if you're looking at being locked out of your car due to frozen door handles.

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If you use the straw to blow your breath, you can melt those handles and let yourself in.

3. Cover your car

They make car covers and windshield covers that allow you to keep the ice and snow off by using a layer to protect your car.

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These really only work for small amounts of snow and ice, and obviously require some planning ahead, but they really work if you're willing to plan.

When it comes time to start your car, to get it warm inside quickly, they say you should only turn your car partially on to the "accessories" mode.

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Not running the engine for a minute or two can sometimes get the air flowing faster than the entire car needing to start. So, give yourself a minute or so to check emails or to listen to your favorite radio show before you go, and you'll have a better chance to keeping your car safe.

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