As summer officially arrived, Tideland Electric Membership Corp. donated box fans to agencies in six counties. The fans are intended for distribution to the elderly or homebound. The drop-off locations included the social-services departments in Washington, Beaufort and Dare counties and senior citizens centers in Hyde, Pamlico and Craven counties. Tideland EMC allows each agency to establish its own criteria for fan distribution. More than 100 fans were delivered by the electric cooperative.

“The elderly are particularly susceptible to heat related illnesses,” said Tideland board president Paul Sasnett. “Many have either inadequate air conditioning or none at all. Others choose not to run their units due to limited finances. The box fans are inexpensive to operate and greatly diminish health risks on warm days.”

The public is reminded that when temperatures exceed 95 degrees, air-conditioned shelter should be sought. A fan used in such extreme conditions could in fact raise body temperatures and bring about the onset of heat-related illness. “For those trying to keep energy costs to a minimum, the fans allow them to raise their air conditioning thermostat a few degrees,” added Sasnett. “It’s practical advice for anyone concerned about utility bills during the summer season.”