Agency continues free-fan program

McCOOK, Nebraska -- With heat advisories in effect today and temperatures expected to be in the triple digits for the next few days, the McCook office of Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska is continuing its program of offering free fans to low-income individuals and families.

Barb Ostrum, community service coordinator of Mid-Nebraska's McCook office, distributed 118 fans last year, the first year of the fan distribution program through the McCook Mid-Nebraska office.

Ostrum said there is some paperwork involved. Call her office, (308) 345-1187, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., to make an appointment to participate in the fan program.

Ostrum will need proof of income and address verification. Income guidelines are: $1,128 per month for one person; $1,518 for a household of 2; $1,906 for a household of three; $2,296 per month for a household of four; $2,686 for a household of five; and $3,075 for a household of six.

The income guidelines may be waived due to extenuating circumstances such as age and/or illness, Ostrum said; contact her for more information.

Ostrum buys the fans locally, from D&S Hardware in McCook.

The fan distribution program is funded through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services' "Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program."

The National Weather Service urges residents to take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. wear light weight and loose- fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the occupational safety and health administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved into a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, call 911.