AARP calls on President to release emergency funding after heat wave sweeps the country...  AARP offers Ten Tips to Beat the Heat and Get Benefit Resource for Utility Payment

WASHINGTON, July 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a letter today, AARP has urged the President to release more than $200 million in emergency energy assistance after the nation was swept by a searing heat wave last week. Emergency funding, found in Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) contingency funds, can be released at the President's discretion to aid communities and individuals affected most by their inability to cool their homes in 100 degree or higher weather.

"The safety and security of low income Americans, especially older Americans, should not be compromised," said Bill Novelli, AARP CEO, in his letter to the President. "Beyond concerns with widespread personal hardships, ignoring energy assistance needs has proven to be penny-wise and pound-foolish -- with a substantial human and economic toll that includes increased heat-related illnesses and deaths, and unanticipated health care costs."

Since many Americans are unable to pay their utilities, or are forced to choose between utility payments and other imperative expenses, LIHEAP is a resource for many during the hottest and coldest times of the year is.

The program provides aid for those who need extra help paying their utility bills. To find out if you are eligible for this, and other public services, visit the AARP Benefits QuickLink at http://www.aarp.org/money/lowincomehelp/quicklink/ .

Areas of the nation continue to experience unseasonably warm weather. Until emergency funds are released, AARP continues to encourage older Americans nationwide to heed warnings and avoid the heat.

As many know, older people, children and others with certain medical conditions (e.g., heart disease) are at the greatest risk for heat-related illness and death.

Now is not the time for chores or running errands.

"Heat waves like the one we recently experienced can be miserable for all ages, but potentially life threatening for older residents," said Elinor Ginzler, AARP Director for Livable Communities. "We especially encourage friends and family to check in with their loved ones on a regular basis and make sure they are doing what they can to beat the heat."

                          Ten Tips for Beating the Heat

    1)  Relax and put off chores and any strenuous activity.

    2)  Stay indoors during the hottest times of the day.

    3)  Close your shades to keep out the sunshine.

    4)  If you do not have air conditioning, stay on the lower-level in your

        home --- heat rises.

    5)  Check with your local agency for cool places you can go such as

        libraries and public buildings, or a mall with air conditioning.

    6)  Wear light-weight, loose fitting clothing and protect yourself from

        the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses or using an umbrella.

    7)  Drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty.  This helps keep

        your body cool.

    8)  Avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages.

    9)  If you have a chronic medical condition, talk with your doctor about additional precautions you should take to prevent heat related

illness.  Some conditions and medications may place you at higher

risk.

    10) Neighbors, friends or family should check in on older people in their homes to make sure they are not suffering from the heat.