How to plunge into an ice hole on Epiphany? Rescuers' recommendations

On January 19, Belarus celebrates the Orthodox holiday of Epiphany. Many, following tradition, prepare to dip into an ice hole.

Employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and OSVOD urge people to do this in specially organized places. To avoid endangering your life, under no circumstances should you swim while intoxicated, dive or swim underwater, give false alarms, gather in groups on the ice near the edge of the ice hole, or go beyond the fences. Experts remind that children are allowed to swim only with parents or adult relatives. Children must be within arm's reach, under constant adult supervision.

Recommendations for dipping:

Dip (swim) in specially equipped ice holes near the shore, preferably near rescue stations, under the supervision of rescuers.
Before swimming in an ice hole, you need to warm up your body by doing a warm-up or a run.
Approach the ice hole in comfortable, non-slip, and easy-to-remove footwear to prevent loss of sensation in your feet. It is better to use boots or wool socks to get to the ice hole. Special rubber slippers can also be used, which also protect your feet from sharp stones and prevent you from slipping on the ice. When walking to the ice hole, remember that the path may be slippery. Walk slowly and carefully.
It is best to dip up to your neck, without wetting your head, to avoid reflex narrowing of the cerebral vessels. Never dive headfirst into an ice hole. Jumping into the water and submerging with your head are not recommended, as this increases heat loss and can lead to cold shock.
When entering the water for the first time, try to quickly reach the desired depth, but do not swim. Remember that cold water can cause a completely normal, safe increase in breathing rate.
Do not stay in the ice hole for more than 1 minute to avoid general hypothermia.
After swimming, rub yourself with a terry towel and put on dry clothes.
To strengthen immunity and prevent hypothermia, it is necessary to drink hot tea, preferably made from berries, fruits, and vegetables from a pre-prepared thermos.

We wish you and your loved ones only a safe immersion!