Fans available to eligible adults through state program

Vulnerable adults have access to help through Operation Fan Heat Relief to reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Aging is partnering with area agencies on aging and local service providers to distribute fans to adults with disabilities or those 60 and older.

Sign up for assistance from May 1 to Oct. 31 at area aging agencies across the state.

Operation Fan Heat Relief, which has been in place since 1986, was supported with donations from Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, Dominion and Valassis.

The relief program allows agencies on aging and local provider agencies to purchase fans for eligible individuals, and a limited number of air conditioners based on a person’s specific health conditions. Last year, the division received $86,000 in donations, allowing for the distribution of 3,097 fans and 21 air conditioners.

“As individuals age and develop chronic medical conditions, they are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature, and they may also be taking medications that can worsen the impact of extreme heat,” officials said. “Operation Fan Heat Relief helps vulnerable adults at risk for heat-related illnesses stay safe during the summer.”

Officials recommend taking the following steps during high temperatures:

• Increase fluid intake.
• Spend time in cool or air-conditioned environments regularly.
• Reduce strenuous activity during the afternoon.
• Speak with their physician before summer about how to stay safe while taking medication that can affect the body’s ability to cool itself such as high blood pressure medications.

More information about Operation Fan and Heat Relief, including tips on preparing for extreme heat and a list of local agencies distributing fans, is available on the NCDHHS website.