Frozen Hempstead Harbor Alters Plans For Polar Bear Plunge

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) - Now here's a bit of irony-- it is so cold that even the "polar bears'' can't swim.

A suburban New York town is changing its plans for a weekend "polar bear'' fundraiser.

Officials say Saturday's polar bear plunge won't be possible because Hempstead Harbor is frozen over after weeks of arctic-like temperatures.

A statement from the town of North Hempstead on Long Island says that rather than plunging into the harbor, participants will instead take part in the "ultimate polar spray!''

Participants will gather at a beach and the local volunteer fire department will spray fire hoses all over them.

The town says the fundraiser is intended to promote Special Olympics New York's programs and athletes.

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