Signs of a stroke outlined in new emergency vehicle decal
On P.E.I. at any one time, there are approximately 800 people who have experienced a stroke
A new campaign is aiming to make Prince Edward Island residents more aware of the signs of stroke and what to do in the face of that health crisis.
Ambulances and other emergency vehicles on P.E.I. now have decals showing people the signs of stroke.
The initiative is a partnership between the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Island EMS and Health P.E.I.
The decal outlines the signs of a stroke — face drooping, not being able to raise both arms evenly, and slurred speech.
Sarah Crozier is the health promotion manager for the Heart and Stroke Foundation and said its information Islanders need to know.
"A stroke is a medical emergency. We want to ensure that all Islanders know these signs of stroke and act quickly by calling 911," she said.
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, stroke is the number three killer of Canadians, and is the leading cause of disability.
On P.E.I. at any one time, there are approximately 800 people who have experienced a stroke.
Crozier said knowing what to do in the event of of a stroke can save precious minutes.
"For a person who is experiencing a stroke, by getting to the hospital in a timely fashion, they increase their chances of survival and recovery with little or no disability," she said.
The decals are now on 23 EMS ambulances and vehicles.