Rescuers warn citizens on swimming in lakes for upcoming religious holiday in Moldova

Chisinau, 18 January /MOLDPRES/ – The rescuers have warned citizens which want to swim in open water basins, according to the Epiphany tradition. They must be cautious, especially in the context of prolonging the unstable ice code, as well as complying with certain security rules.

According to the IGSU's information and media communication service, bathing will be done only in the places specially prepared and arranged for it.

Also, it is recommended that ambulances with drinks and hot light snacks are organised around these places. The entry into cold water will be done in small groups to avoid ice breaks and accidents caused by them. The admission of minors is also prohibited without parental supervision.

Similarly, it is categorically forbidden to drink strong alcoholic beverages, bathing of drunk persons, those with certain health problems, especially those with chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

"The Epiphany bath has an ecumenical significance, which signifies freedom from sins and body and soul cleanliness, and it is not an occasion for baptism and outdoor feasts," explained more priests.

The Orthodox old – style Christians celebrate Saturday, 19 January, Epiphany, which signifies the baptism of the Lord in the waters of the Jordan. On this day, there are carried out liturgical services in churches and it is made holy water. The most courageous parishioners bathe in the water sanctified in lakes, ponds and other open water basins, according to a tradition, which says that "people strengthen their spirits and are lucky all year."

The State Hydrometeorological Service has extended the Yellow Code of unstable ice by 25 January. According to hydrologists, during the reference period, in the rivers and water basins in Moldova, the ice will be unstable and soaked with water, and it will present increased danger stepping on it.