Fans are available for adults living with disabilities or are 60 and older through their county’s aging agency.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Aging, area agencies on aging and local service providers are partnering to distribute fans through Operation Fan Heat Relief. Assistance began May 1 and ends Oct. 31.
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Operation Fan Heat Relief has been providing fans since 1986 to those eligible to help reduce heat-related illnesses and make their living environment more comfortable.
The state’s Division of Aging received $85,000 in donations, allowing for the distribution of 3,627 fans and 23 air conditioners in 93 counties last year. Donations are through Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, and Dominion Energy.
“It is important to keep cool in extreme heat, especially for older adults with chronic medical conditions who are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature, and they may be taking medications that worsen the impact of extreme heat. The relief program helps vulnerable adults at risk for heat-related illnesses stay safe during the warmer weather months,” state health officials said.
In addition to using electric fans, the following hot weather tips for seniors should be observed to reduce heat-related illness:
- Increase fluid intake.
- Spend time in cool or air-conditioned environments regularly.
- Reduce strenuous activity during the afternoon.
- Speak with a 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.
For more details on Operation Fan Heat Relief, individuals should contact their area agency on aging or the NCDHHS Division of Aging at 919-855-3400.
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More information about Operation Fan Heat Relief, including tips on preparing for extreme heat and a list of local agencies distributing fans, is available on the NCDHHS website.
