As Independence Day weekend approaches, its important to take precautions to protect yourself against the July heat. According to AccuWeather, a significant heat wave will build and air quality will deteriorate over the northeastern United States this weekend, and it is likely to last into Wednesday.

AccuWeather meteorologist Frank Strait, warned those in the heat wave’s path to be cautious this weekend through early next week. Temperatures across the northeast are set to be in the 90s with the hottest days projected to be Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Strait said the temperatures will feel more like 105 in the Northeast during the afternoon hours from Saturday through Monday.

Actual temperatures may even reach or exceed the century mark Sunday and Monday.

“While heat waves are common around Independence Day, this pattern could bring the hottest early July weather for such a broad area of the Northeast since 2012,” according to AccuWeather meteorologist Evan Duffey.

“Extended periods of sunny, hot, humid and calm weather are the perfect breeding ground for poor air quality conditions,” AccuWeather meteorologist Faith Eherts said.

The longest stretch of 90-degree days was mostly in the four- to five-day range for the northern states, according to AccuWeather. This time around, we could have seven days with highs at or above 90 degrees into next week.

“This puts many people at risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Guy Triano, CEO for the American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region. “In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods.’’

PPL Electric Utilities assures customers that their grid is fully equipped to handle the heat wave.

“Our customers depend on us and we improve and maintain the power grid to be able to safely and reliably deliver electricity, no matter the weather,” said Steph Raymond, vice president of Distribution Operations for PPL Electric Utilities. “We don’t anticipate any significant problems due to the high temperatures.”

Strait stressed the importance of not only taking care of yourself, but also taking care of pets and young children as well. Leaving animals or children alone in a vehicle could have fatal results. On a hot summer day the temperature in a parked car can rise to over 100 degrees in a short period of time. He also advised against walking dogs outside during the heat wave since the pavement can become hot enough to harm the animal.

Without the proper precautions, it’s possible to suffer from both heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Those with respiratory issues are advised to be inside an air conditioned area to avoid any possible issues. Both children and the elderly should be under supervision as they are at a higher risk of acquiring a heat related illness.

Eldred Township advised residents to call 911 if they are experiencing a heat emergency. People will be directed to an emergency cooling shelter.