El Paso Extreme Weather Task Force kicks off summer safety and fan drive

EL PASO, Texas – Anticipating 100-degree temperatures, the El Paso Extreme Weather Taskforce (EWTF) is kicking off its summer safety and fan drive. While they already have about 200 fans in their inventory, task force leaders are anticipating a greater demand in advance of this year's summer.

Grace Ortiz, who is a chairperson for the EWTF stated, "last year we delivered more than 350 fans, but I think it'll be more this year because I think it's going to be hotter. We are already in the 100s."

Thus, the collection begins. New fans can be donated to any El Paso or Horizon Fire Department- the firefighters will bring them to the EWTF to be delivered to those in need.

The most at risk of heat exhaustion or stroke in our community are those who are considered elderly, young babies and children, and those with disabilities. Last year, the El Paso Medical Examiner's office reported three heat-related deaths.

"Our goal is to have zero deaths, but I can't do it myself. We have to do it as a community," Ortiz said. That is why each year the EWTF asks the community to help out with fan donations.

If you are without air conditioning or considered low income and can't afford AC bills, you should call 2-1-1 "and press number 1 for registration and service, so they can get your information. We'll be calling you to set up an appointment for pickup," Ortiz added.

The EWTF has collected and delivered more than 10,000 free electric box fans to the elderly and families in need.

Even if you don't need a fan, there are many affordable ways to keep your home cool in the summertime. Laura Ponce from Project Bravo shared several ways to do just that. One is by implementing black-out curtains or shades, and closing them to prevent much of the heat from seeping in. Another is by changing the type of lightbulbs you use:

"CFI lightbulbs save you about 5 times the energy, IED actually save you 25 times the energy plus they don't release heat," Ponce said.

During the summer, you should change your fans to rotate counterclockwise to push the cool air down, keeping you nice and cool. Finally, the most expensive option is a bit of an investment, but would pay for itself in just a few years.

"Putting attic, and wall, and floor insulation- you will recover whatever it is that you invest in your home within 3-5 years. So it's an investment that is not only recouped by your energy savings, but is also there for years to come," Ponce said. Use these tips to keep cool!