WILMINGTON - The Mayor's Office of Constituent Services is offering relief from the summer heat to Wilmington seniors. On Tuesday, June 9, the City began distributing free electric fans to eligible residents, and efforts will continue each week from Tuesday through Thursday from 11 am to 2 pm on the 7th floor of the City County building at 800 North French Street.

To qualify for a free fan, residents must live within City limits and must be 65 years of age or older. Recipients must show proof of age and residency and cannot have received a free fan in 2025.

Residents are advised not to use an electric fan when the outdoor temperature is above 95 degrees. While fans create airflow, they can also provide a false sense of comfort that does not actually reduce body temperature.

Residents are reminded to practice the following safety measures in extreme heat:

• Make a special effort to check on neighbors, especially if they are seniors, families with young children, people with special needs, or living alone.

• Never leave children, the elderly, or pets unattended in a parked car under any circumstances, not even for a few minutes. Brain damage or death can occur from the rapid rise in temperature inside a vehicle in a matter of minutes.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. While outdoors, rest frequently in a shady area.

• Avoid overexertion and strenuous outdoor activities. Take extra precautions if you must work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours and take frequent rest breaks.

• Stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible. Find places in your community where you can get cool.

• Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnessessuch as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, so call 9-1-1 immediately.