A Myth That Costs Lives
"Have a shot to stay warm" is a phrase most people know. It's also one of the most dangerous myths in outdoor recreation and cold water swimming. Alcohol and cold water is a combination that contributes to fatal accidents in Scandinavia every year.
What Alcohol Actually Does to the Body in Cold
Alcohol creates a feeling of warmth by dilating blood vessels in the skin (vasodilation). But the effect is reversed inside the body: The warm blood flowing to the skin is rapidly cooled by the environment and returns to the internal organs colder than normal. You lose heat faster – despite feeling warm.
The Rule Is Simple
Never cold water swim if you have drunk alcohol. Not even one beer. Not even with company.
Read our full safety guide for ice baths and always swim with a sober companion.
