>> you can come in. >> reporter: but they do know, when the temperatures hit the hundreds -- >> oh, yeah, it's hot in here. >> reporter: living in apartments like this can be dangerous. how difficult is it for you? is. >> very. but most of the time, my heart -- it's bumping like -- you know, it's like -- like i need oxygen, you know. like i need air. >> reporter: yeah. >> because of the heat. >> reporter: alfred and his wife keep lights off, fans on, windows open. it helps, but not much. how hot would you say it is in here? >> i don't know. but probably 98 degrees. >> reporter: buying an air conditioner, not an option. instead, the extra money is needed to it buy supplies for their college-bound daughter. >> i need something for my daughter. she needs a book or something, i have to make the decision. >> reporter: i see. >> i prefer to take the -- you know, the heat. and provide to her. >> reporter: the city's mayor encouraging people like alfred and his wife to spend their days, if possible, in libraries. theatres. or cooling centers like this