Soaring temperatures along with very high humidity is causing what’s called a “heat dome” over much of the country. People can download the Red Cross Emergency App (redcross.org/apps) for instant access to extreme-heat safety tips and severe weather alerts, including heat advisories, watches and warnings for their area and where loved ones live.

“The Red Cross wants Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties residents to know how to deal with the extreme heat,” said Peter Brown, executive director of the American Red Cross Lehigh Valley-Bucks Chapter. “We’re also encouraging people to check in on their friends and neighbors who don’t have air conditioning or who live alone.”

Heat safety tips:

• Never leave children or pets in a vehicle - even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.

• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

• Use a buddy system if required to work outdoors, and take frequent breaks.

• Check on animals frequently to ensure they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.

If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should choose public places (shopping malls, libraries, movie theaters) to go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day. People can help conserve energy by running appliances during nonpeak hours.

Find additional tips at redcross.org/heatsafety.