CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (July 3, 2024) – Carteret County Aging Services is helping residents stay cool this summer with Operation Fan Heat Relief. The program provides free fans for Carteret County residents 60 years or older, as well as younger residents with qualifying disabilities, who lack adequate home cooling and face potential health risks during hot weather.
“Summer heat can be dangerous for seniors living without air conditioning,” said Lakisha Williams, Director of Aging Services for Carteret County. “When temperatures soar, opening windows and using a fan can significantly improve air circulation and help residents stay cool.”
During periods of extreme heat, older adults are advised to:
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid strenuous activity outdoors or in hot environments.
- Wear a hat when spending time in the sun.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, fruit, or vegetable juices and iced tea to replace the fluids lost by sweating.
- Keep your medicine in a cool, dry place.
- Check up on friends or neighbors who live alone.
“It’s important to be prepared for unpredictable summer heat waves,” Williams emphasized. “Extreme temperatures and high humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses in vulnerable populations.”
Early heat stress symptoms include fatigue, mild appetite loss, dizziness, and nausea. If experiencing these symptoms, move to a cool area, drink fluids, remove excess clothing, and rest.
Seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 for serious heat stress signs such as flushed, hot, dry skin; fainting; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; vomiting; and body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
To request a free fan or for more information, contact Carteret County Aging Services at the Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center by calling 252-247-2626.
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