ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office & Forensic Center shared safety tips for residents ahead of expected high temperatures later in the week. 

Extreme heat can become life-threatening for older adults, children, individuals with medical conditions, workers, and those who lack access to air conditioning, the coroner’s office said in a Facebook post. 

Residents should stay hydrated, check on anyone who may be vulnerable to the heat, and be aware of heat exhaustion and heat stroke warning signs, according to the post. 

David Doheny of Allentown is planning a week with family and friends at his backyard pool and bar.

He’s getting some outdoor chores done now, ahead of the scorching heat.

“Maybe work early in the morning, if you’re going to work. Don’t overexert yourself; make sure you hydrate,” Doheny said.

Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio is calling for caution after two heat-related deaths during the year’s first heat wave last month.

“It’s not just that it’s frustrating. It’s heartbreaking,” Buglio said.

In both cases, men in their 70’s were found inside their homes with elevated temperatures.

“It’s something that I want to prevent. That’s why we want to get the word out,” Buglio said, reminding neighbors and relatives to check on people with children or pets, and especially older residents.

He says to also make sure seniors have either a fan or air conditioning and to make sure they know how to operate it. Buglio says inattentiveness can be deadly, as non-ventilated homes can reach temperatures of 95 to 100 degrees.

“The condition of the body can be extreme in a matter of days. It can be to the point where we’re not able to recognize the body visually, we may have to use an alternative mode of Identification,” Buglio said.

The oppressive heat comes just before the Fourth of July weekend. Doheny says the key is to prepare for it and enjoy it.

“Don’t work. Stay at home. Stay in the pool, stay in the [air conditioning],” Doheny said.

The coroner’s office said heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms include dizziness, confusion, nausea, heavy sweating, weakness, and loss of consciousness. 

Call 911 if someone is experiencing signs of heat stroke.