Braving the Frigid Waters

I've had it in the back of my mind for a number of years that it would be fun to go in the Polar Bear Swim in English Bay. Trouble is, come New Year's Day I'm usually in no shape to be out of bed. This year tho! This year I am doing nothing for New Year's, so I think the Polar Bear Swim might actually happen. Anybody with me?

Thousands of people will gather to brave the frigid waters of English Bay. Swim time is at 2:30 PM but registration takes place in front of the English Bay Bathhouse from 12:30 - 2:30 PM. I'm not totally clear on why you need to register, but this is one of the oldest Polar Bear Clubs running, so I guess they like to keep everything in order. Plus you get a commemorative button.

Some important safety tips to keep in mind if you do go for a dip:

-Anyone with heart problems -- just watch!
-Do not drink -- alcohol does not warm you up -- it accelerates hypothermia.
-Do not stay in the water longer than 15 minutes. Body heat is lost 25 times faster in water than in air.
-Do not remove your clothing until swim time.
-The swim will be started by a flag and siren.
-Entrants in the 100 yard race -- meet in the front line on the north side (Stanley Park side) of the enclosure.
-First 3 swimmers to touch the marker buoy by the lifeguard boat -- give your names to the lifeguard.
-Commemorative buttons are picked up after you swim at the large polar bear or at the registration table.
-Warm up with coffee or hot chocolate.

Image from last year's swim courtesy of the Vancouver Parks Board.