South Okanagan Sheriffs, first responders will plunge into icy lake to raise money for the Special Olympics

It's going to be one cold afternoon in the lake for a group of emergency responders this March.

Sherriff Francesco Murdocco is leading the charge this year for the Sheriff Polar Plunge, where first responders will be headed into the icy water of Tuc-el-nuit Lake, in an effort to raise money for the Special Olympics.

Murdocco is rallying sheriffs in the South Okanagan, along with members of the BC Ambulance Service, the RCMP, and the Oliver Fire Department.

The Sheriffs have been assisting with the Polar Plunge for six years, with 2023 being the fourth time officers have plunged in Oliver.

The BC Special Olympics was chosen by Chief Sheriff Paul Corrado, who has sat on a law enforcement committee that dedicates time and work towards the fundraising goals.

"Following our Chief’s example we are more than happy to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and first responders in this great cause and give back to our communities," Murdocco said.

This year the plunge will be on Friday, March 3 at 2 p.m. In the event the lake is frozen or unusable, the plunge will take place at the Oliver Fire Department.

"Hopefully we can raise a bunch of money and on the day of, we can go celebrate however much we raised by jumping in the cold water," Murdocco said.

Donations can be made through the Polar Plunge SOBC website here. Cash donations will also be accepted in person the day of.

More information about the fundraiser can be found online here.