Stroke Awareness
Image adapted from Niagara Therapy LLC (FAST stroke recognition guide)
Know the Signs — FAST
The easiest way to recognize a stroke is FAST:
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F — Face drooping
One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask them to smile. -
A — Arm weakness
One arm may feel weak or drift downward when raised. -
S — Speech difficulty
Speech may be slurred or hard to understand. -
T — Time to call 911
If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
What to Do
If you think someone is having a stroke:
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Call 911 right away
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Stay with them and keep them safe
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Note the time symptoms started
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Do not wait to see if it gets better
Acting quickly matters.
Understanding Risk
Some factors can increase the risk of stroke, including:
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High blood pressure
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Diabetes
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Smoking
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High cholesterol
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Lack of physical activity
Managing these over time can help reduce risk.
Why This Matters
Stroke can happen suddenly, and often when people least expect it.
Knowing what to look for and acting quickly, can make all the difference for someone’s life.
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