North ⁢Carolina Offers Free ⁣Fans too Seniors, Disabled Adults Through October

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Teh North Carolina⁢ Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is partnering wiht area agencies on aging and local service providers to distribute fans statewide through the Operation Fan ⁢Heat Relief program. The program ⁣runs from May 1 to Oct. 31, 2025.

Eligibility and Program⁤ Details

North Carolina residents aged 60 and older, as well as adults with disabilities, are eligible to apply for assistance through local service providers across the state between May 1 and Oct. ⁢31, 2025.

Since its inception in 1986, Operation Fan Heat Relief has provided‍ fans to vulnerable adults, creating more agreeable living conditions and mitigating ⁣the risk of heat-related illnesses. Last year, the‍ NCDHHS Division⁢ of Aging ⁤received $86,000 in donations, enabling ⁤the distribution of 3,670 fans and 35 air conditioners ⁢across 94 counties.

Funding and Resources

Donations from Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, and Dominion energy ⁣enable regional ⁣area agencies ⁣on aging and local providers to purchase fans for eligible ⁤individuals. Local agencies can‍ also acquire a limited⁢ number of air conditioners for individuals with specific⁣ health ⁤conditions.

The Importance of Staying Cool

Maintaining a cool surroundings is crucial, especially for ⁢older adults with chronic medical conditions who may have difficulty regulating their body temperature ‍or are taking medications that exacerbate the⁤ effects of extreme heat. Operation Fan Heat Relief aims to protect vulnerable adults from heat-related illnesses during ‍the summer months.

Tips ⁤for Staying Safe in High Temperatures

In addition to⁣ applying for a fan,⁢ the NCDHHS recommends the⁤ following ⁤precautions during periods of high temperatures:

• Increase fluid intake.
• Spend time in cool or air-conditioned environments‍ regularly.
• Reduce strenuous activity during the afternoon.
• Consult with a physician before summer regarding medication and its potential impact on the bodyS ability to regulate temperature.

contact Data

For additional information, individuals⁣ can contact their local area agency on aging or the NCDHHS Division of Aging at 919-855-3400.

More details about Operation Fan heat Relief, including tips for ⁢preparing ⁢for extreme⁢ heat and a ‍directory ‍of local agencies distributing fans, can be found on the NCDHHS website.