Freezin' for a Reason on Long Island

John Mitty Thursday, December 19, 2013

Each year, Long Islanders flock to various beaches for the opportunity to plunge full on into the 35 degree waters off the coast.  Why would anyone get excited about the idea of swimming in freezing water when the air is already freezing?  There is a reason.  In fact, the slogan for these events is “Freezin’ for a Reason.”  Each year, the annual Town of Brookhaven Polar Plunge raises money for the Special Olympics.  There is also an event in Roslyn in March, and another in Long Beach.  The Long Beach event is the most successful on the island, taking place each year on Super Bowl Sunday. 

Event-goers have a great time, despite the low temperatures.  During the event, children can play with beach balls, and fun beach music plays.  Dancing is a prominent part of the event, and so is food and hot cocoa.   “It’s a winter festival,” explained Kristine Aquilone, representing the LI Region of Special Olympics New York.  Jumping into the water should be safe for most participants who use common sense.  If you decide to go to a polar plunge event, wear shoes and a wet suit if you have one.  Those with heart conditions should stay on the shore, and all plungers should come back out and dry off quickly.  “When you jump into the water, the heart slows,” explains Dr. Peter Viccellio of Stony Brook University Hospital.  “Have fun doing this, but don’t stray very far from shore.”

 

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

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