MCKINNEY (CBSDFW.COM) - The McKinney Fire Department is holding a big giveaway to provide some relief from the extreme North Texas heat. On Monday morning, the department will hand out hundreds of free box fans to residents in northern Collin County.

The hope is that people who are most vulnerable to heat-related injuries – like the elderly and those homes with young children – will take advantage of this unique opportunity. “It is extremely critical to keep some air circulating,” said Stacie Durham with the McKinney Fire Department. “Oftentimes I’ve gone into home and, particularly of seniors, they may have the air conditioning, but because of fear of being unable to pay their electric bill, they may not run it. I’ve been in homes where it was well over 90 degrees, with seniors living there with no air moving.”

In addition to handing out fans, the McKinney Fire Department will also offer tips on how to survive in dangerous weather, and how to keep energy bills as low as possible while remaining safe.

“You might start to have heat cramps, headaches, nausea,” explained Durham. “Sweat helps to keep the body cool. If you’re at the point where you’re not sweating, you know you’re in a very dangerous situation.”

The fan giveaway is taking place at the Wysong Central Fire Station, located at 301 North McDonald Street in McKinney. The event begins at 9:00 a.m. Monday morning and runs until 2:00 p.m. Monday afternoon. Those hoping to receive a free fan must provide proof that they are a resident of northern Collin County – such as valid ID or a current utility bill.

This program has been funded through the McKinney Lions Club, with a grant from TXU Energy. TXU Energy customers may also qualify to receive a ceiling fan, a special kit for weatherizing the home, or a window air conditioning unit.