With the extreme heat likely playing a role in the deaths of two elderly persons in Fountain Hills in recent weeks The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is alerting county residents to check on their elderly neighbors as temperatures will again top 110 degrees this week.

“Our friends and relatives of advanced age are at extreme risk in summer heat,” said Sheriff Paul Penzone. “Air conditioning systems are operating at a high level and a failure can quickly become deadly for elderly persons, especially those already suffering medical problems.

Last week, MCSO Deputies were called out to investigate two deaths and found the deceased in a home where air conditioners were not working:

On June 25, an 86 year old female, identified as Thelma Calhoun, living alone, passed away in her residence.

The AC unit was not properly functioning though it had recently been repaired. The temperature inside the home was over 99 degrees.

On June 30 Lorraine Minneci, a 90 year old female living alone was found deceased in her residence. The AC was malfunctioning. The setting was on “high” but was off. When deputies checked the AC was blowing hot air.

“I find this cluster to be unusual,” explained Captain Henry Brandimarte, the Commander of MCSO District VII based in Fountain Hills. “We have the potential to see more suffering as we head through the summer if we are not proactive in checking on our neighbors.”

Captain Brandimarte suggests neighbors and relatives take the following steps:

*Reach out regularly to family members and neighbors.

*Physically check on your loved ones to ensure their comfort.

*Repair and delivery people should be vigilant when visiting homes and report any unusual circumstances so that resources will get to those in need.

*Look for newspapers in the driveway, routines that are not being followed by your neighbors, and alert public safety if you think something isn’t normal.

“While our schedules are packed every day let’s make certain that our most vulnerable residents are getting assistance,” advised Sheriff Penzone. “Your action in service to your relatives and neighbors could avert a tragedy.”