Shuswap residents will once again be shivering in a new year with a dip in the frigid waters of Shuswap Lake.
A polar bear swim will be taking place at the Canoe Beach boat launch on Jan. 1 at 10 a.m. For 2020, the annual event will not be hosted by the Salmon Arm Waves Masters swim club as in previous years, though several of the club’s members will be participating.
In the South Shuswap, the 5th Annual Polar Bear Swim is scheduled to take place on Jan. 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Shuswap Lake Provincial Park in Scotch Creek.
Read more: Try a bold start to the New Year
Read more: Swimmers brave frigid Shuswap waters
The lake’s temperature, last recorded on Dec. 31, reached a measly 2.2 C. If you are thinking of participating, here are some safety tips to keep in mind.
- If you have a heart problem, just be an observer.
- Do not drink. Alcohol does not warm you up. It accelerates hypothermia.
- Wear something on your feet during the swim.
- Have a towel/blanket to stand on when you come out of the water.
Read more: Video: Swimmers dive into Shuswap Lake for annual Polar Bear Swim
Read more: Kick off new year in cold water
@CameronJHT
Cameron.thomson@saobserver.net
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