Extreme Weather Task Force offers fans to low-income residents who qualify for assistance

With at least five more days of triple-digit temperatures in the El Paso forecast, the City of El Paso Department of Public Health is reminding residents that electric fans are available to low-income residents who qualify for the assistance.

The units are available to those who are considered at high risk for heat-related illnesses.

This includes: infants less than one year of age, the elderly, the disabled, those on Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security Income, especially those who do not have air-conditioning.

The fans are made possible through a collaborative effort by the Extreme Weather Task Force and the many agencies represented. The group has distributed more than 11-hundred fans in the last two years. Anyone interested in receiving a free fan may dial 2-1-1 to see if they qualify.

Remember Buddy System

The Department of Public Health is also reminding residents that the “Buddy System” is especially important during times of extreme heat. Visit older adults at risk at least twice a day and watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These signs include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting, a fast or weak pulse, and fast or shallow breathing.

Encourage them to increase their fluid intake by drinking cool, nonalcoholic beverages regardless of their activity level. (Warning: If their doctor generally limits the amount of fluid they drink or they are on water pills, they will need to ask their doctor how much they should drink while the weather is hot.) Take them to air-conditioned locations if they have transportation problems.

For more information on the programs and services offered by the Department of Public Health, visit EPHealth.com or dial 2-1-1.

Source: El Paso Department of Health