Man Dies Taking Facebook ‘Polar Plunge Challenge’ [VIDEO]

You've probably seen videos of friends taking the '24-Hour Polar Plunge Challenge' in your Facebook feed, or on some other form of social media. Participants record video as they jump into the frigid-cold water of a nearby lake or river, then challenge three friends to do the same within 24 hours.

WCAX-TV reports that a New Hampshire man has died taking the challenge. Authorities say the cold water can casue shock, cardiac arrest, and hypothermia.

Having lived in Northwest and Northeast Michigan as a young person, I have numerous friends who've posted video of themselves taking the Polar Plunge Challenge in Lakes Michigan and Huron.

Sgt. Ray LeBlanc of the Vermont State Police scuba team says people are ignoring the red flags.

"I think people need to use a little bit of common sense and realize that their life is a lot more fragile and more important than the two minutes of fame on Facebook or wherever else these videos are getting posted."

WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-

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