(KFVS) - Crosswalk Community Action Agency of West Frankfort announced Illinois released a very limited amount of funding for Summer Energy Assistance Program.

According to the agency, due to very limited funding, assistance will be provided to people who approach the company first. The utility payments are for electric services only. This will affect the counties of Franklin, Jefferson and Williamson.

Starting at 7 a.m., appointments will be distributed on July 11.

The LIHEAP Summer Energy Assistance Program is targeted for at-risk households with at least one resident age 60 or older, at least one resident with a disability income, at least one resident age 4 or young or at least one resident with a document medical condition that can be improved by air condition. To qualify residents must have an income equal or less than 150 percent of the poverty level.

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Public Health is offering Fourth of July and summer safety health tips to help avoid injury and illness.

Food Safety - for cookouts and picnics, temperature is key to avoiding food-borne illness.

• Use a meat thermometer to make sure all meat and poultry are properly cooked. Ground beef hamburgers to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and hot dogs to 165 degrees Fahrenheit
• Use a clean plate when taking food off the grill
• Keep hot food hot (140 degrees Fahrenheit or above), and cold food cold (40 degrees Fahrenheit or below)
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours

IDPH says the symptoms of most food poisoning include severe cramps, fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and blood diarrhea. Symptoms can begin from 30 minutes to three or more days after eating contaminated food. If food symptoms are severe or last longer than two days, contact a doctor or health care provider.

(KFVS) - The American Red Cross is sharing some safety tips for Independence Day.

The holiday is just around the corner and many people will visit the lake, enjoy fireworks or fire up the grill for a backyard barbecue.

“The American Red Cross wants everyone to have a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday, and taking a few simple steps to stay safe can help ensure that this will be an enjoyable holiday for all,” said Nigel Holderby, Red Cross Chief Communications Officer.

LAKE SAFETY: If swimming in the lake is part of someone’s holiday plans, they should check the weather and water conditions beforehand and throughout the day, swim only within the designated swimming area and obey all safety rules. Avoid alcohol before and during any water activities and make sure to never swim alone.

Other tips to keep in mind: