Humane Society's Polar Bear Plunge to go virtual this year staff reports Rising COVID-19 cases and Greenbrier Park’s new restrictions on events mean the Humane Society of Washington County’s 18th annual Polar Bear Plunge will be 100% virtual this year. Participants will plunge separately — but united — for animals in need, according to a news release from the organization. For the Virtual Polar Bear Plunge, HSWC is asking plungers to display their bravery by taking the plunge in a fun, new way on Jan. 9. How deep a plunge is up to each participant. A pool, a creek, a bathtub or even a bucket are all fair game during this unusual year, according to the release.