Cold, wet start to new year anticipated by these folks

As of Friday, at least 50 people had signed up for the fundraiser, which is being organized by Boston Pizza in support of the Yarmouth Fire Department.

Several firefighters are expected to join in the dip and department members will be breaking the ice for participants.

Last year restaurant owner Curt Stephens and four others plunged for the first time. He described the experience as not as bad as one might imagine “Thinking about it is a lot worse than doing it. It’s just cold water. Run in. Run out. It really is that simple,” he said.

Medical personnel will be present and the Lake Milo boathouse is available for changing and to warm up in afterwards.

Stephens is encouraging individuals and teams to wear costumes.

A Sony Portable Playstation will be awarded to whoever raises the most funds. Prizes will also be awarded to best group theme costumes and individual costumes. Pledge sheets are available at the Yarmouth fire station on Pleasant Street or at Boston Pizza.

A pizza buffet will be served at the restaurant after the dip at 1 p.m. The meal will be complimentary for firefighters and volunteers. The cost is $9.95 for everyone else.

The event, which is not recommended for individuals with health concerns, will start at 11:30 a.m. with registration at the Lake Milo boathouse. The dip begins at noon sharp. Participants should not consume alcohol prior to the dip as it accelerates hypothermia. Those who wear eyeglass should use an athletic strap to secure them. Footwear is recommended to prevent cuts from rocks and also to stop feet from sticking to snow and ice on the shore.

Participants are asked to bring a friend as a spotter. Spectators are encouraged.

Stephens says the experience is guaranteed to help people tolerate the remainder of winter. “I haven’t minded the cold since,” he said.