More hot weather is forecast for later in the week.
Syracuse, NY -- Three people in Onondaga County died over a five-day period during the recent heat wave, said county Health Commissioner Dr. Cynthia Morrow.
The deaths are very unusual for the county, which averages one death a year due to heat, she said.
With more hot weather in the forecast, County Executive Joanie Mahoney cautioned people to check on their neighbors and loved ones, to drink fluids and to not try to "sweat it out" to save energy costs during the recession.
"It might be annoying that it's hot, but it's more than that, it's dangerous," Mahoney said. "It's very important for neighbors to be neighbors and check on each other."
Morrow said signs of heat illness include altered mental condition and the lack of sweat, leaving one's skin hot and dry.
Those with mental illnesses, the elderly, the young and those on certain prescriptions are especially vulnerable to heat illnesses, she said.
The county Department of Aging and Youth is coordinating efforts to provide places for people to go in the heat, including cooling areas at senior centers and libraries.
Many of these places have extended hours during heat waves, Mahoney said. People are encouraged to call the aging and youth department at 435-2362 for more information.
Morrow would not comment on the specifics of the deaths, but said the deceased either had pre-existing conditions or were elderly.
