The expert pointed out the harm of alcohol consumption before bathing in the ice-hole
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- The expert pointed out the harm of alcohol consumption before bathing in the ice-hole
On the Epiphany holiday it is impossible to drink alcohol before dipping in the ice-hole. This was told to "Izvestia" on January 18 by Olga Korotina, a researcher of the department of psychotherapy and medical rehabilitation of the National Scientific Center of Narcology - a branch of the NMC of Psychiatry and Narcology named after V.P. Serbsky of the Ministry of Health of Russia. V.P. Serbsky Ministry of Health of Russia Olga Korotina.
Immersion in the ice-hole in one of the main Orthodox holidays - Epiphany - has already become an important tradition for many believers.
However, according to the expert, a spontaneous decision to plunge into the icy water for company is dangerous for health. Also, prolonged presence in cold water in a state of alcoholic intoxication can contribute to the development of heart attack and stroke. And if you try to warm up with alcohol before or after dipping in the ice-hole - deadly.
In addition, after a dip in an icy ice hole, alcohol increases heat loss and sharply reduces the body's reactions, after which there is a risk of injury due to impaired coordination of movements, as well as the risk of extreme hypothermia due to a false sense of warmth.
"Trying to warm yourself with alcohol before or after an ice hole dip is a deadly idea. That alcohol can warm you up is a very common myth. After taking alcohol can really feel warm, but it is a false sensation, which occurs due to the expansion of blood vessels and increased blood circulation, but the feeling of warmth lasts for a very short period of time, and the person will again feel cold, "- added Korotina.
On the night of January 19, Orthodox believers celebrate the Epiphany, or Epiphany. This holiday is considered one of the oldest and most revered in Christian culture. In 2025, the celebration falls on Sunday.
Earlier in the day, the head of the Russian Emergencies Ministry, Alexander Kurenkov, said that more than 7,000 EMERCOM rescuers will ensure safety during the Epiphany bathing in Russia from January 18 to 19. According to the Russian Emergencies Ministry, the rescuers will also measure the thickness of ice on the places equipped for baptismal bathing and check fire safety in churches and temples, where services will be held.
In Moscow, 42 sites in different administrative districts have been prepared for baptismal bathing. Lifeguards will be on duty at these sites during the baptismal bathing. Also this year additional patrolling by hovercrafts will be introduced.
