HEAT: A reader reached out to ask us to pass along an important message.

Check on people who live alone when you don’t see or hear from them in awhile.

The reader said she hadn’t heard from an acquaintance during the recent heat wave, so she requested a welfare check. He was OK, and staying inside to stay cooler. She spoke to him by phone two days in a row, just visiting.

However, she was recently notified that some time after that, the man had passed away inside his home. It was nearly a week before he was found.

“I am writing this hoping that maybe you can get someone to write an article about checking on your friends, neighbors, and anyone that may live alone who has nobody else.

“Maybe you can remind people that if they haven’t seen someone in a while to do a little investigating, ask some questions, call them up, or request a welfare check. No one deserves to die like this man did.”

We agree.

It is an important message no matter the season. Children and the elderly, as well as people with medical conditions, are particularly susceptible to extreme conditions.

It doesn’t take much time to be a good neighbor. Your actions could make someone’s day, or even save a life.

There are signs on an everyday basis that could signify elderly folks may need some help, too: Erratic driving or new damage to their vehicle; a sudden change to their appearance — like when a usually dapper fellow starts to look unkempt; pets not being taken outside or for walks; no lights on at night, which could signify the power has been shut off; failing to put trash out for weekly pickup, or mail overflowing the box.

If you notice these signs, talk to your neighbor, ask how they are doing and mention you’ve noticed something. Offer to help. Find out if there are family members to contact. Reach out to the neighbor’s church to see if there is a way they can help.