Polar Bear Plunge set for New Year's Day
Dec. 30—The Lewiston-Clarkston Valley Polar Bear Plunge is an annual event where people can brave cold water while observers question their decision-making.
The event starts at noon Monday, New Year's Day, at the dock below the Red Wolf Crossing Bridge, 15th Street in Clarkston near Hells Canyon Resort. The event's organizer, Jett Vallandigham, said to arrive by 11:45 a.m., but people will probably start gathering at 11:15 a.m.
"The event goes fast, you don't want to miss it," Vallandigham said in an email.
Vallandigham also offered tips so the "polar bears" can prepare for the cold water. She said to wear a swimsuit, hat and shoes that can be worn in the water. That doesn't include flip-flops, which often float up after the plunge, leaving their owners barefooted.
Some of the plungers wear costumes, like a Darth Vader costume one year, but Vallandigham said to keep safety in mind with the outfits. The Asotin County Rescue Unit will be on site with lifeguards and rescue tubes if anyone needs assistance.
Human polar bears need to protect themselves from the cold water and weather, something actual polar bears are designed to do naturally. They have two layers of fur to keep them warm and prevent heat loss. They also have a layer of fat, sometimes 4 1/2 inches thick. The fat keeps them warm in Arctic water that can dip to temperatures of minus-50 degrees, according to Polar Bears International.
Humans can replicate some of those advantages with their apparel and what they eat before the plunge. Vallandigham suggests a hearty breakfast like eggs. Her favorite recipe is "egg in a hole," a slice of bread with a hole cut out for frying an egg served with butter and syrup. In the email, she said the sugar keeps you warm, but a warm drink like hot cocoa, coffee or tea also works.
Temperatures, not as cold as in the Arctic, should be around 46 degrees at noon Monday, with a wind chill factor making them closer to 43 degrees. Although it will be partly cloudy, there isn't expected to be rain, according to the National Weather Service in Spokane.
After the plunge, plungers are asked to bring a large towel to wrap in and plan for a hot shower or bath.
Cold plunges have become popular and regular groups have popped up around the U.S. and the world, according to National Public Radio. Vallandigham said cold plunging helps boost the immune system. It can also help with chronic inflammation, improve mental health and help manage stress responses and workout recovery, according to NPR.
Brewster may be contacted at kbrewster@lmtribune.com or at (208) 848-2297.
