How to Survive the Polar Plunge

Each year, typically on New Year's Day, thousands of people boldly take part in a "polar plunge" or "polar bear swim." They jump into bitterly cold water, often through holes drilled in the ice. Immersion in such cold water presents hazards, including cardiac arrest. Before taking the plunge, be sure you are physically up to the challenge.

Instructions

    • 1

      Undergo a physical exam a few days before the plunge. Tell your doctor what you have plan to do and let him examine your cardiopulmonary system. Don't take part in a plunge unless your doctor approves.

    • 2

      Eat a hearty breakfast within a few hours before the plunge. Bacon or other breakfast meats, along with a high-carbohydrate option such as french toast, pancakes or hash browns, are good options. Use extra butter and syrup to give your body the calories it needs to withstand the shock of the cold water. Drink water, juice and decaffeinated tea or coffee. Avoid caffeine until after the plunge.

    • 3

      Strip down to your swimming gear at least two minutes before the plunge to let your body begin to adjust to the cold. Do not let your body get so cold that you begin to shiver, an early sign of hypothermia.

    • 4

      Jump into the water without hesitation, trying to ignore the cold and the shock to the system. Don't flounder and thrash in the water. Swim back to shore quickly but deliberately.

    • 5

      Have blankets and warm shoes ready for when you get out of the water. Bundle up and put on a hat immediately. Drink a warm beverage and relish your conquest of the cold.