If Someone Has a Stroke: What You Should Do Immediately Before the Ambulance Arrives

A stroke is a medical emergency. Acting quickly can make a life-saving difference. Knowing what to do before emergency services arrive can help reduce complications and improve outcomes.

⚠️ This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care.

Recognize the Signs of a Stroke (FAST Method)
Use the FAST test to identify a possible stroke:

F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side droop?

A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Is one arm weak?

S – Speech: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?

T – Time: If you notice any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

What to Do Immediately