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WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Police in West Columbia are collecting fans to help the needy stay cool during South Carolina's hot summer months.

Chief Dennis Tyndall is asking the public to help out his officers and donate new fans or money to purchase them.

Donations are tax deductible and can also be made online at www.wcpof.com.

Last year, Tyndall says his officers distributed about 100 fans to people in need. The chief says priority is given to the elderly and those with medical issues who have no means of cooling their homes during the summer.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)