It began with a series of challenges amongst firefighters in Hancock County, which eventually spread south to the Midcoast. Take a polar plunge within 24 hours of being “called out” by the person who is about to jump in the water, or donate $100 to a firefighter charity of one’s choice.

The first to be called out locally was Camden Fire Chief Chris Farley. He was called out May 20 by Ellsworth firefighter Jake Underhill.

On May 21, Farley donned shorts and sandals and jumped off the rocks at Beauchamp Point into Rockport Harbor.

“I’m calling out Hunter Schade, Isaiah Backiel, Kevin Mulvihill and Cheyne Hansen,” said Farley, before taking the plunge.

And what has followed has been a continuing series of polar plunges around the local harbors and lakes, with call outs to firefighters in Camden, Lincolnville and Rockport. And it’s even spread to the Camden Police Department, with Chief Randy Gagne and officer Brook Hartshorn taking the plunge and passing the challenge along to others.

Many of those who have jumped in the water have videotaped their plunge and shared it with others across Facebook, and YouTube. And for those planning to participate in Saturday’s “Run for Your Life” Emergency Service Challenge, the polar plunge has been a great way to kick off what will likely be a more challenging feat out at the Camden Snow Bowl tomorrow.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or 706-6655.