AS BRITAIN is hit by another heatwave many of us will be wondering how to stay cool while temperatures soar.
Thankfully several major energy suppliers are offering handy gadgets and free cash to help you beat the heat.
Here we explain what’s on offer from all the major suppliers and how you can apply now.
EDF
EDF is giving away free fans and blackout curtains to up to 10,000 vulnerable customers through its Heatwave Relief Packs scheme.
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People who will struggle to keep their home cool or are worried about the cost to run devices including fans will be eligible for the support.
Those who are eligible will receive tailored help worth up to £100, which could include:
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Energy-efficient desk or pedestal fans
Handheld or neck fans
Thermal blackout curtains
Reflective window film
Reusable hydration bottles
Cooling towels
Up to £20 of electricity credit or vouchers to help cover the cost of running cooling appliances
Practical advice and guidance on staying safe during hot weather
Customers will be identified by EDF’s customer support teams, referrals and directly through customer engagement channels.
But if you’re worried about your bill then you can contact EDF directly and ask about any extra support.
E.ON
E.ON Next customers can get help through its E.ON Next Energy Fund, which helps customers who are struggling to pay their bills.
The supplier will also replace inefficient or broken appliances, including some heating and cooling appliances.
Meanwhile, if you’re racking up a big bill running a fan or air conditioning unit then you could be eligible for a debt write off.
A spokesperson said: “We’re keen to remind our customers of the support available to them all year round to help ensure nobody is missing out on support they’re entitled to – from direct financial help and flexible payment plans to practical advice.”
If you’re struggling then contact the energy supplier directly.
You can do this online or by calling 0808 501 5200.
British Gas
The British Gas Energy Support fund is one of the most generous on offer and can help you to write off up to £2,000 of energy debt.
You may be able to apply for a grant if you’ve racked up a big bill this summer by running fans or air conditioning units.
To be eligible for support you need to have between £50 and £1,700 of energy debt if you’re a prepayment customer, or between £250 and £1,700 if you’re a credit customer.
Meanwhile, you can’t apply if you’ve received a grant within the past two years.
For more information visit britishgasenergytrust.org.uk/grants-available/.
Octopus Energy
The major energy supplier has an assist fund that can help you if you’re struggling to pay your bill.
You can apply for the help year-round by contacting the supplier or completing a Paylink form.
To download the form visit octopus.energy/financial-assistance/.
Meanwhile, if you don’t have one already then a smart meter could help you to track how much a fan costs to run.
To apply for a free smart meter visit octopus.energy/get-a-smart-meter/.
Staying safe in the sun
While warmer weather can be fun, it is important to stay safe and avoid over heating – here are some other top tips to stay safe in the sun
Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection
The NHS website recommends wearing a hat that shades the face, neck and ears and breathable fabrics that do not let the sunlight through.
Drink water
Staying hydrated in the warmer weather is also important. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you if you are travelling and taking sips throughout the day.
Use suncream
According to the NHS webiste, adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen if you’re covering your entire body.
If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is not as effective
If you’re worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
