Soon, the stifling heat in Oklahoma will return, and because everything is becoming more expensive, assistance is on the way for residents who are having trouble paying their utility bills.
The summer cooling aid program from DHS is currently accepting applications. This year, pre-authorization for the LIHEAP program has been granted to 35,000 eligible homes in Oklahoma.
Matthew Conley, Administrator of DHS’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, told reporters, ‘We get emails on a regular basis from low-income Oklahomans letting us know how crucial this program is to them. Older people and people with young children need cooling when the temperature rises just to stay alive.’
According to the EPA, 1,300 people lose their lives in the United States each year due to extreme heat.
How Does the Summer Cooling Program (AKA LIHEAP) Work?
The program, which is also known as LIHEAP, is offered twice a year to Oklahoma residents who meet specific requirements and provides assistance in paying for one energy bill of up to $150. This helps eligible individuals stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Conley said that ‘as long as they apply, and they are eligible, we can apply a payment directly to their utility provider.’ This is true ‘as long as they apply and as long as they are eligible.’
LIHEAP is a service that many Oklahoma residents living on a low budget really need.
Who Pays for LIHEAP?
According to Conley, ‘it can be a life-threatening situation if you are unable to cool your medicine, run your air conditioner or fans, or keep the electricity going to power your machines that keep people alive.’
The program is made possible thanks to funding from the federal government and the 2022 budget is set at $23 million.
According to Conley, every dollar will be put to use this year to help Oklahoma residents who are in need.
Conley also stated that after the money had been allocated, the initiative will be terminated and program details removed from the internet, since there won’t be any funding left.
What is the Max Monthly Gross Income for LIHEAP Applicants?
The following is a list of the maximum monthly gross incomes that are permitted for each family size in order to qualify for the Summer Cooling initiative:
- 1 person: $1,396
- 2 people: $1,888
- 3 people: $2,379
- 4 people: $2,871
- 5 people: $3,363
- 6 people: $3,855
- 7 people: $4,347
- 8 people: $4,839
How Do I Apply for Summer Cooling Assistance?
On Tuesday, June 28, 2022, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) will start accepting applications online at OKDHSLive.org for Summer Cooling. You are invited to submit an online application at OKDHSLive.org if you require help paying your primary cooling utility payment.
Many homes getting aid from DHS do not need to apply for summer cooling assistance because they have already been preauthorized. Households with preauthorization have already received written notice of their eligibility.
How Can I Stay Cool During the Summer Heat?
Looking for additional tips on staying cool when the weather becomes extreme? Here are some of the most effective ways to cool down.
1. Use Electric Fans
Box fans and ceiling fans improve house airflow. Opening doors and utilizing fans to force hot air outside may act as an exhaust system and bring in cooler early morning and late evening air. In the evening, open all windows to increase airflow.
Close doors, windows, curtains, and blinds as the sun rises to keep the inside cool. When the outside air cools at night, open the windows and turn on all fans.
2. Take Advantage of Water’s Cooling Power
Have a swimming pool? Use it! Otherwise, you can cool down by soaking your feet in containers. Dampening towels and bandannas help chill shoulders and heads.
Cold showers or baths do the trick too. Finally, put cold water into a spray bottle and give yourself a good misting when you feel flush.
3. Occupy the Bottom Floor
If you live in a multistory home, spend your time on the first floor during the height of the day’s heat.
Since hot air rises, most home’s top floors tend to be considerably warmer. A cool basement might also be a good high-noon retreat.
4. Reduce Unnecessary Heat Sources
Incandescent light bulbs, computers, and other miscellaneous appliances emit excessive heat and warm a space, so turn off any unused sources of heat or unplug them altogether.
Also try to prepare more meals that don’t involve cooking, especially the use of the oven.
5. Stay Hydrated
When it’s hot, you really need to drink extra water to keep your body hydrated at adequate levels. If you’re sweating heavily, eat a modest bit of food with your water or take electrolyte replacement beverages.
Thirst is the first indicator of dehydration; drink plenty of water throughout the day and hydrate even more if planning on doing any strenuous activities, i.e., working out, gardening, household chores, etc.
