FAQ's

Below is a list of most frequently asked questions regarding the Penguin Plunge.  If your question is not answered below, please feel free to email the museum (fun@ameliaparkmuseum.org) or call 413-572-4014 and someone will get back to you promptly.

Who can plunge?

Children under age 17 may plunge with a waiver (available on site) and a parent or guardian present at the event.

How do I pre-register for the Plunge?

1. The easiest way is to complete your Registration Form on-line, and then bring your final pledges to the pre-registration on January 29th.
2. Pick up your form at the Museum (29 South Broad Street, Westfield, MA 01085). Bring your final pledges to the pre-registration on January 29th.

You will also need to print out your Pledge Form (or pick one up at the above location) and

• Keep track of all your donations.

• Bring pledge form and your money with you on January 29th, at pre-registration or on the day of the Plunge. All Checks are made payable to APCM.

• Finally, check out the schedule of events so you know what's going on that day!!

What do I get?

Our famous and ever changing Plunge shirt - this year a White long sleeve Crew Neck shirt with our new logo and this year's sponsors!  FABULOUS!  Sorry there are no returns or exchanges.  So get your registration form in ASAP to assure you receive your shirt the day of the plunge!

What's the minimum donation required?

$50 is the minimum required pledge for everyone this year.

What do you get?

• Raise $50- $149 Plunge and be entered in a drawing to win a prize
• Raise $150 - $299  Plunge and be entered in a drawing to win a prize
• Raise $ $300 - $499 Plunge and be entered in a drawing to win a prize
• Raise $500 + Plunge and be entered in a drawing
• And more to come..............

When is the Penguin Plunge?

The Penguin Plunge is on Saturday, January 30th, 2010. Registration /Check-in and festivities begin at 11AM and the actual Plunge will begin at 1PM.

Where will the Plunge be held?

Hampton Ponds State Park, Rte. 20, Westfield

Where can I park?

On site at Hampton Ponds State Park.

What is the actual Plunge?

The actual Plunge is where a plunger jumps into the chilly pond water! Two warming tents are provided, one for men, and one for women, to change into dry clothes. 

What safety precautions are available?

The Penguin Plunge will use EMS personnel to keep plungers safe. Our event is a fun and wacky one, but there is some risk from the water being so cold. These highly trained individuals consider air and water temperature, as well as other conditions to decide both a maximum time plungers are allowed to stay in the water, and how deep plungers can go. These folks will keep all the plungers and viewers safe!

How does the Plunge occur?

Just prior to the Plunge, all Plungers will enter a "Plunger Only" area. A safety briefing will remind you how to plunge safely. Once that is over, stand by and wait, you'll be announced as you JUMP or ease into the water!

What can I wear?

Bathing suits or wet suits are fine, but you can get really crazy and wear a costume!! Wet suits are available for a discounted rate of $10 each at Wilderness Experiences Unlimited, 526 College Highway in Southwick. For more information call them at 569-1287 or visit www.weu.com . There will be prizes for best costumes!! Past plungers strongly recommend wearing sneakers or water sandals- the ground and platform will be COLD!

Costume Contest:

A prize will be awarded to the most creatively dressed.
Note: face masks are not allowed for safety reasons - if you wear a face mask, you will be asked to remove it before entering the water. 

What if I'm cold or get cold easily?

We will have emergency crews and ambulances on site during and after the Plunge. There will be larger, amply heated changing areas for everyone.

What else is going on that day?

CBS3 will be on-site.  Rotary organization will be selling delicious hot and cold beverages and food items. Of course Westfield Fire Department will be cooking up their famous chili which sells out every year!  Big Al Elman, our official photographer, will be onsite taking photos for our website. 

Are you media?

Please check in at our media registration booth to get your lanyard. This will identify you and give you access to special, media locations for photo opp’s. You will not have access to these areas without this identification. There will be a restricted number of individuals from each media outlet due to limited space.

I can't collect all my pledges before the event. What do I do?

We can only register you for the amount of donations you bring with you to pre-registration on January 29th at the museum, or on location the day of the Plunge. Separate checks are ok and should be made out to the museum (APCM). If you accept donations after the Plunge, you can drop them off or mail them to the museum: