Project Name: Heat Emergency Task Force

Relationship to QCHI: QCHI Project

Project Description: The Heat Emergency Task Force promotes awareness of measures to prevent heat related illnesses.  The Task Force also distributes cooling equipment such as fans and air conditioners to those in need and provides support for paying additional utility costs related to extreme weather conditions.

Target Audience: Homebound residents of the QCA and those individuals susceptible to excessive heat including the elderly, the disabled and persons with chronic diseases

Start Date/Current Status: The Task Force began operating in 2001. The Heat Emergency Task Force launched a Heat Awareness campaign in 2002 and distributed cooling equipment to those in need.  The Task Force also issued Heat Emergency advisories via the media throughout the summer.  The Task Force last met in Autumn 2002.

Project Goals and Objectives: 

1. Raise awareness of the effects extreme weather has on health
2. Meet 100% of the identified need for cooling equipment in the Quad City Area through direct assistance or referrals
3. Assist 100% of those individuals identified in need with unmanageable utility expenses due to extreme weather

Project Performance/ Accomplishments:  

1. Sixty air conditioners were purchased and distributed in 2002
2. Five air conditioners were purchased and installed for individuals in need in 2001
3. Approximately 300 fans were distributed in 2002 and 490 fans were distributed in 2001 free of charge
4. Seven cooling sites were established and available during heat emergencies in 2001

Project Contacts: Richard L. Phillis, Project Chair (309-787-0955) and Rebecca J. Anderson, Project Assistant (563-421-2826).