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== Getting to Polar Bear Swim ==
Outdoor bodies of water have a funny way of getting cold in the long Massachussets winters. Therefore, a polar bear swim can happen anywhere there is a safe, relatively clean and perhaps relatively secluded body of water. However, it is safer to go in a group, and the [[Williams Outing Club|Outing Club]] runs regular swims for anyone interested in participating. Their most common destination is the [[Green River]]. The Polar Bears currently meet on the Paresky steps at 10 PM on Tuesday nights.
Some say you achieve official polar bear status when you have immersed yourself outdoors at least once each month, on a regular basis -- no planning for warm weather! Going with the Outing Club provides you with a regular schedule, friends who will watch out for you, encourage you, and perhaps fetch your sandals if they go floating down the river.
== Surviving a Polar Bear Swim ==
Wear layers out to the site. Overdress. Have warm clothing for every part of your skin; don't neglect gloves, wool socks, thermal underwear, and ''especially'' a full hat -- one that covers the ears. Bring a large towel. Consider bringing strong sandals to wear into the water, such as Tevas -- this is a must if there is ice, as your feet will not be able to handle direct contact with the extremely cold river bottom. Bring a sleeping pad to stand on if there is snow on the ground; you'll want to keep your toes dry and insulated as you undress.
As you remove your street clothes, arrange them with a thought to redressing quickly. Your hat should be the last thing to come off and the first thing you put on, then socks and gloves. Place all of these in safe, dry places, perhaps suspended from low branches.
