Good reason to skip the Polar Bear Dip and make a donation instead

At dinner with friends last night -- New Years' Eve -- one guest asked if anyone wanted to participate in the Polar Bear dip at Old Orchard Beach, Maine on New Years' Day. He said the temperatures were going to be in the high forties to fifty degrees -- warm compared to other years. Another guest said he made the plunge a few years ago when the air temperature was about ten degrees. He also exclaimed that he has never been so cold in all of his life.

I explained that a cardiologist once told me that a dip into frigid water could upset the rhythm of the heart -- even in a young person. Since that time, I have discouraged anyone who suggests jumping into the freezing water in winter. None of our guests jumped at the chance to participate in the plunge today.

My recommendation is to make the donation to the charity sponsoring the Polar Bear dip or plunge or whatever they call it -- and skip the dip.

If you know someone who does take the plunge, you could help them out by being there with a blanket, dry clothes, and a microwave heating pad (warmed up, of course). Maine Warmers offers a variety of products designed to help one warm up when feeling cold, or to relax stiff muscles. A Cozy Polar Bear makes the perfect gift for a person participating in one of these events in spite of the risk. Or choose from a variety of Comforting Creatures that include, Moose, Black Bears, Cats, Dachshunds, and more.

Maine Warmers' Cozy Polar Bear for comforting warmth in winter