THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, July 26, 1995 TAG: 9507260429
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B3 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: STAFF REPORT
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
The United Way on Tuesday allocated $5,600 to operation FAN CARE to help buy about 400 fans for senior citizens and low-income families who are suffering from the heat.
FAN CARE participants include SEVAMP - the Southeastern Virginia Areawide Model Program Inc. Senior Services - plus the Salvation Army, Virginia Power and Wal-Mart. FAN CARE programs have already distributed nearly 1,000 fans in statewide this summer, according to the state Department for the Aging.
``Most people don't realize the dangers the elderly face during periods of extreme heat such as we are presently experience,'' said Dr. John Franklin of the Eastern Virginia Medical School.
``Many of them have limited ability to sweat. . . because of certain medications they are taking or the coexistence of chronic diseases. Once their body does not cool itself . . . they begin to show signs of heat exhaustion leading to heatstroke.''
SEVAMP plans to put out heat alerts, warning the elderly that high temperatures and the humidity call for extreme caution. The warnings also will include advice on how to combat the heat. ILLUSTRATION: TO GET HELP
For details on eligibility for assistance, call SEVAMP at 461-9481
and the Salvation Army chapters in South Hampton Roads at 622-7275.
by CNB