Wilmington offers free fans to city seniors as way to beat summer heat

With the hot summer heat showing no signs of stopping anytime soon, Wilmington has started its annual initiative to give free electric fans to one of its most vulnerable groups of residents.

Wilmington residents who are at least 65 years old can receive a free electric fan from the Mayor's Office of Constituent Services. The giveaway will continue for as long as supplies last.

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Anyone who lives within Wilmington city limits and is at least 65 years old is eligible as long as they did not receive a free fan from the city last year.

Anyone who qualifies for the free electric fan should bring proof of their age and residency to the seventh floor of the Louis L. Reading City/County Building at 800 N. French St. The office will be open to distribute fans from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

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While fans can help make the heat more tolerable, the mayor's office cautions residents to avoid using fans when it is over 95 degrees outside, as the airflow can provide a "false sense of comfort" without actually lowering one's body temperature.

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Instead, Wilmington residents are advised to stay in air-conditioned buildings and other cooling areas whenever possible. There are many libraries, pools, recreation centers and spray parks open throughout the city with free admission.

The mayor's office also encourages residents to check on their neighbors — especially those who are older, have young children or live alone — on hot days.

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at [email protected]. For more reporting, follow them on Twitter at @h_edelman.