Temperatures approaching triple digits mean far more than just a little discomfort for some residents of the Black Belt.

Rising mercury in the thermometer also means rising risks for the elderly and others who might not have air conditioning.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham predicts temperatures in the Black Belt to hit high marks of 98, which would approach record highs. When humidity is factored in, temperatures could feel more like 105 degrees.

High temperatures, Selma Chief of Police William T. Riley said, can also lead to a higher volume of calls from concerned citizens.

“Normally the police and fire departments will get calls from people asking us to check on the welfare of the elderly or others that need assistance,” he said. “There are also times that we get calls about pets where someone might have them tied up in the sun or they might not have enough water. We try to handle calls for both people and pets when the temperatures get hot.”

Alabama Power also looks after its customers in times of extreme heat. Spokesperson Michael Sznajderman said when temperatures reach highs above 98, they cease service interruptions.

“Service interruptions are also stopped when there is a heat advisory from the National Weather Service or health departments,” he said.

Customers are encouraged to call Alabama Power if they are facing service interruptions rather than allow them to happen, Sznajderman said.

“That way we can work with them and establish an affordable payment plan,” he said.

A heat advisory can lead to heat related illnesses. The Center for Disease Control encourages people to drink plenty of fluids, stay inside in air conditioning if possible and keep a close watch on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly.

The center also offers these tips for staying safe during a heat advisory:

Drink more fluids regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar; these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.

Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library — even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.

Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place, is a much better way to cool off.

Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.