Polar Plungers jumped into a pool at Bicentennial Park last year to raise funds for Special Olympics West Virginia. (File Photo)

PARKERSBURG — COVID-19 will not be keeping residents from freezin’ for a reason this year.

The ninth annual Polar Plunge, which benefits Special Olympics West Virginia, will be taking place virtually during the month of February.

Normally, plungers would jump into a pool of cold water to raise money for the organization.

“We greatly appreciate your commitment, enthusiasm and creativity. An important caution: Cold/freezing water presents obvious and not-so-obvious dangers and is risky at any depth to people of any age, mobility, or health status,” said Special Olympics of West Virginia, “You MUST exercise caution and personal responsibility in your Virtual Polar Plunge activities. SOWV cannot identify or control the risks of every Virtual Plunge activity and has not endorsed or approved as safe any particular Virtual Plunge activity.”

The minimum amount to Plunge is $50, and prizes or swag are available for those who raise more.

Larry “Mad Max” Maxwell took the plunge for the first time last year to raise funds for Special Olympics West Virginia. (File Photo)

One hundred percent of the funds go to putting on the Special Olympic events for the athletes.

According to SOWV, a plunger can use his or her pledge form to collect donations, or ask your supporters to donate online.

“Once all your donations have been received and totaled, your swag items will be mailed to you,” said SOWV.

Plungers can register at www.sowv.org and complete their Polar Plunge at home anytime during the month of February.

The SOWV explained that this could mean taking a cold shower or fill your bathtub with ice cubes (please remember to wear swimwear)

Polar Plungers jumped into a pool at Bicentennial Park last year to raise funds for Special Olympics West Virginia. (File Photo)

You could plunge in your pool, at the beach, run through a sprinkler, get sprayed with a hose outside, or jump into the creek in your backyard. You decide how you will be “Freezin’ for a Reason.”

“Be smart, be safe, and be careful – for you and all who join you in your Virtual Plunge activity. In whatever form your Virtual Plunge takes, follow all applicable water (and freezing water) safety and COVID-19 protocols,” said the SOWV.

Plungers can upload their Virtual Plunge video to the organization’s Facebook page, using #SOWVPolarPlunge, anytime until Feb. 28.

Videos should be no more than 60 seconds, and inappropriate or unsafe submissions will be deleted.

There will be a “People’s Choice Award” for the most creative costume and best plunge video, along with an award for highest fundraiser.

Voting opens today (one vote per day).

“This is just another fun way to show your support and be Freezin’ for a Reason for Special Olympics West Virginia.,” said the SOWV. “At the end of the day, no matter what your Plunge looks like, you’ll be supporting thousands of athletes here in West Virginia.”

Madeline Scarborough can be reached at mscarborough@newsandsentinel.com