Rising temperatures have people seeking cool relief throughout the region. Now through Sept. 30, eligible seniors can apply for a free fan through Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia’s annual Fan Care program.

Applicants must live in South Hampton Roads, be 60 years or older and provide a signed self-declaration of a health/medical need for assistance. Gross income of all members of the applicant’s household is used to determine eligibility: no more than $1,354.50 monthly for one person; $1,822.50 for two people; $2,289.00 for three people; $2,757.00 for four people. Verification of the household income is required.

Fan Care is offered in a partnership with the Virginia Department for the Aging and Dominion. For more information, call Senior Services at 461-9481 and ask to speak with an intake specialist.

Senior Services also offered tips on keeping cool for its clients:

Use air conditioning or go to an air-conditioned location near you (libraries, shopping malls, movie theaters)

Slow down

Bathe and shower

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

Drink fluids often

Avoid hot foods, heavy meals and alcohol

Watch salt use

Exercise caution

A private, not-for-profit organization, Senior Services provides services for citizens in Chesapeake, Franklin, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach and Isle of Wight and Southampton counties.

Its headquarters and satellite offices offer everything from home-delivered meals for qualifying seniors to counseling for Medicare, Medicaid and long-term care insurance.