DANGERS RISE WITH SOARING TEMPS
Heat blamed for death
By Elizabeth Billips Associate Editor

Soaring temperatures took the life of a Burke County woman.

Constance Hull, 69, was found dead in her Hometract Road mobile home Saturday.

Heat exhaustion was the cause of death, according to Burke County Coroner Betty White.

Deputies were called by worried family members who hadn't heard from Hull in two days.

When officers climbed through the window of the sweltering trailer, they found Hull's body on her bed. While there was at least one window air conditioner in the home, it apparently wasn't functioning properly.

Jennifer Royal, administrator for Burke Medical Center, said 10 people have been treated for heat related illnesses in the past week. She said the patients ranged from young children to the elderly.

With temperatures in the 100s expected all week, residents are urged to take caution, especially when exercising or working outdoors.

Those without air conditioning are encouraged to go to First Baptist Church's heat shelter on North Liberty Street. It is open every day the temperature rises above 100 degrees.