Northeast News
June 27, 2013

The Salvation Army and KCP&L have teamed up to help Kansas City residents beat the summer heat. Both organizations will be handing out heat safety information and free electric fans to those in need on Friday, June 28, at the Manuel Career and Tech Center parking lot, 1215 E. Truman Rd., Kansas City, Mo. Volunteers will distribute fans from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., or until supplies run out.

Fans will be available on a first come, first-served basis and only one fan is available per household. A limited number of fans are also available for home-bound individuals and those aged 65 and older who are unable to pick up a fan. To arrange a delivery, call 877-566-2769 this Friday. Fans will be delivered to homes the week of July 1.

The KCP&L Extreme Heat Relief Program is being coordinated by The Salvation Army through a donation from KCP&L. Additional distribution sites and times will be announced as the need arises during the summer.

“The safety of our customers is our top priority during hot weather,” said Elizabeth Danforth, KCP&L senior manager of public affairs. “For some, an electric fan can make all the difference in staying cool. In addition to providing fans, we want to give our customers additional steps on how to stay cool this summer.”

A few tips include:
· Seek a cool public place, such as a library or mall, if you don’t have air conditioning or fans. Call United Way 2-1-1 for assistance or for more information about public cooling centers in Missouri or Kansas.
· Use ceiling and portable fans to circulate air.
· Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity.
· Wear loose fitting, lightweight, natural fiber clothing.
· Never leave children or pets unattended in enclosed vehicles. It takes only a few minutes for a closed up vehicle to reach temperatures in excess of 140 degrees.