ATLANTA — Hot weather is moving its way into the metro area for the July 4th weekend and that means it's important to be prepared before heading out the doors.
Two terms that you're likely to hear amid scorching temperatures is "heatstroke" and "heat exhaustion."
They're the same thing, right? Wrong.
You may feel faint or dizzy if experiencing head exhaustion, while a throbbing headache is likely indication of a heat stroke, according to the National Weather Service.
Both conditions are dangerous, but knowing the difference can help you know how to best respond.
This chart below from 11Alive's meteorologists is a great tool to keep track of which conditions are associated with which condition.
For heat exhaustion, it's important to do whatever you can to cool your body down. Recommendations include:
- Get to a cool air-conditioned place
- Drink water, if conscious
- Take a cool shower or use cold compress
However, if you are experiencing a heatstroke, it's important to call 911 as it does require emergency treatment. While you wait for medical treatment, do everything you possibly can to cool down.