According to http://www.extremeweatherwatch.com, the hottest day in Lancaster County's recorded history was Aug. 7, 1918, when the temperature peaked at a staggering 107 degrees. This record remains unbroken, but June's heat wave battered the county with temperatures higher than anything the area has experienced in recent years. Although the extreme weather has affected every part of the county, residents of rural townships may face different hazards than others who live in the suburbs, and certain populations are more vulnerable to severe heat.

On its website, http://www.noaa.gov, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration states that heat is one of the primary causes of weather-related deaths in the United States, causing more than 1,000 deaths every year. NOAA also lists newborns, pregnant women, elderly persons and individuals with chronic illnesses as groups that are more susceptible to serious health issues in hot conditions. Extreme heat events have been associated with birth outcomes such as low birth weight and congenital cataracts, and young children's bodies are not able to adapt to heat as well as most adults. The NOAA encourages individuals to practice heat safety by limiting time spent doing outdoor activities, staying hydrated and double-checking their vehicles to make sure children and pets are never left unattended inside.

There are many ways all residents of Lancaster County can practice heat safety, but some areas pose a different threat than others during periods of excessive heat. Suburban neighborhoods in Landisville, Willow Street and Millersville contain more square footage of pavement and concrete than townships that are less developed. The NOAA warns drivers that paved roads are susceptible to deterioration and buckling from excessive heat, and asphalt can become hot enough to burn pets' paws after it is exposed to direct sunlight. Residents of the county's rural communities such as Buck, Refton and Marticville may beat the heat in shady forests and cool creeks, but help is less accessible to those who are separated from their neighbors by several acres of land. Local emergency service organizations encourage community members to help make the Southern End safe by checking in on elderly neighbors and people whose homes do not have air conditioning.

"If you're outside and you're thirsty in that kind of heat, it's too late," said Andrew Gilger, Lancaster EMS' performance improvement officer. "The key to avoiding heat injuries is staying ahead of it. Drink lots of water and take breaks when you know you need it."

Forecasts predict that slightly cooler days will arrive in upcoming weeks, but experts urge the public to keep heat safety in mind and to remain on the lookout for advisories from local weather agencies and emergency service organizations this summer.