The heat wave hammering the Black Belt has created a dangerous situation for the elderly.

Selma City Councilmember Bennie Ruth Crenshaw said some of Selma’s seniors have refrained from running their air conditioners because of the expense the units create on their utility bills.

To solve the problem of high utility bills and life-threatening heat, Crenshaw kicked off a drive to collect fans that will be donated to seniors in the city.

“The elderly right now have a problem with turning on an air conditions, but they will plug in the fan,” she said. “They know running the fan won’t cost as much and they will also be more comfortable.”

The project, Crenshaw said, has not been going for long, but has already had a positive response from the community.

“We just started the project about a week ago and we have collected eight fans,” she said. “We’ve given them out so far and if anyone else would like to donate we’d be happy to have them.”

During Tuesday’s Selma City Council meeting Crenshaw said the program would continue throughout the summer. Councilmember Corie Bowie said he would pledge three fans to the cause.

In addition to fans, Councilmember Sam Randolph said it is important to check in on the elderly when temperatures are as intense as they have been.

“I’ve made it a habit when I am making my rounds to check in on some of the elderly people in the community,” he said. “I’d encourage neighbors and friends to check in on the elderly people they know or live near. Some of them might live alone and not have anyone to look out for them. That’s something I’ve always tried to do.”

For more information on the fans program call 874-1234.