PHOENIX — Authorities are investigating another possible heat-related death in the Valley.
An elderly man was found unresponsive inside his mobile home at the Desertscape community in north Phoenix early Tuesday morning.
A manager at the mobile home park told 12News that the man's air conditioning unit was undergoing repair and he had been living off a portable A/C unit.
“Seniors don't sweat as well as younger people do. So it's really important that they stay hydrated that they recognize the symptoms of dehydration, and make sure that they drink a lot of (water), seniors don't drink enough water as it is, for various reasons. And a lot of times, they're on medication that can have adverse effects regarding the heat," said Director of AARP Dana Marie Kennedy.
The Medical Examiner's Office will determine the man's official cause of death.
Heat-related deaths in the Valley
According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 18 people have died from apparent heat-related issues as of July 15. An additional 69 cases are under investigation.
Department of Health officials said four of the 18 people were indoors when they died. Data shows 75% of those people had non-functioning air conditioners. The other 25% had units that were not in use.
The first heat-related death was reported on April 11. Thirty-three percent of the heat-related deaths were people 75 or older.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.