Immersion (bathing) should take place in specially equipped ice-holes near the shore, preferably close to rescue stations, under the supervision of rescuers.
- Immersion (bathing) should take place in specially equipped ice-holes near the shore, preferably close to rescue stations, under the supervision of rescuers.
- Before bathing in an ice-hole, it is necessary to warm up the body by doing warm-up exercises or jogging.
- Approach the ice-hole in comfortable, non-slip, and easily removable footwear to prevent loss of foot sensitivity. It is better to wear boots or woolen socks to reach the ice-hole. Special rubber slippers can also be used, which protect feet from sharp stones and prevent 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 immerse yourself up to your neck, without wetting your head, to avoid reflex narrowing of the cerebral blood vessels. Never dive headfirst into an ice-hole. Jumping into the water and submerging headfirst 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 and safe increase in breathing rate.
- Do not stay in the ice-hole for more than 1 minute to avoid general hypothermia.
- After bathing, rub yourself with a terry towel and put on dry clothes.
- To strengthen immunity and prevent hypothermia, drink hot tea, preferably made from berries, fruits, and vegetables from a pre-prepared thermos.
- In bathing (ablution) areas, it is prohibited to:
- bathe while intoxicated;
- perform actions related to diving and underwater swimming, or raise false alarms;
- pollute and litter water bodies and shores;
- bring dogs and other animals;
- gather in groups on the ice near the edge of the ice-hole;
- go behind fences.
- Children are allowed to bathe only with parents or adult relatives.