Stokes can affect anyone, even young children. Knowing how to recognize it and what to do can save a life.

Just remember S.T.R.O., the first 4 letters of the word stroke.

SmileTalkRaise arms tongueOut

Sometimes the symptoms can be difficult to identity. Severe brain damage can occur when symptoms are not recognized as stoke. Minutes can make a difference.

S. ask the person to SMILE

T. ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE coherently. (i.e. It is sunny out today or My coat is blue.)

R. ask him or her to RAISE both arms.

O. ask the person to stick their tongue OUT. If it is crooked or lolls to one side that is not good.

If they have trouble with any of those four tasks, call 911 immediately. Keep the person laying down and calm until help arrives.