A blazing sun and steaming streets and still we haven't even hit the hottest part of the summer. That worries the staff at the Salvation Army in Spartanburg especially since they are seeing more requests for fans.
"Feeling that breeze can make all the difference," said Salvation Army Captain Ray Morton.
Morton said the economy is forcing people to figure out how to stay cool for less.
"People are concerned about their utility bills and they are seeing the need to get rid of their disposable income so they can hold on to it for their necessities," Morton said.
Social Service Coordinator Pat Cooper said some are forced to simply stop using their air conditioning.
"Some people live in homes mobile homes and if it's 99 degrees outside it's 109-115 degrees inside," Cooper said. "They have no air or can't afford to run the air."
Duke Energy has seen an 11 percent increase so far this year compared to last in the number of people in the Carolinas who are facing disconnection because they are unable to pay their bills. That increase has forced the Salvation Army to turn people away because they simply don't have enough fans to give out.
"When people come in and we are unable to assist they leave even worse in their spirit," said Morton. "They just feel that they've been turned down by an agency that's out there to help."
So we checked out three local stores to find the cheapest ways to help. Fans at Dollar General started at $9. And we found you could nab one at Home Depot and Walmart for just $10.
The Salvation Army hopes others will see it as a small price to pay to help someone in need
"If you're feeling really cool right now please think of somebody who's sweating," said Morton.
If you want to help you can drop off new fans at the Salvation Army in Spartanburg. It is located at 1529 John B White Boulevard. The hours are 9 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 4 pm Monday through Friday. You can also call 864-576-6670 for more information.
Duke Energy says keep this in mind to keep cool for less:
-Raise your thermostat. Cooling below 75 degrees in the summer can double a bill
-Close window coverings during the day. Solar heat gain can account for one-third of the load on your air conditioner.
-Watch the weather forecast before opening your windows at night. If it's going to be hot again tomorrow they suggest you keep the air on to keep the humidity out of the house. They say humidity can be a significant load on an air conditioner.
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